Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe
Manufacturer
Cipla Ltd
Salt Composition
Tocilizumab (162mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe is a medicine used to treat various inflammatory conditions of the joints, skin, and bowel.
Dosage Form
Prefilled Syringe
Introduction
Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe is given by a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered. You should use it regularly and at the same time each day to get the maximum benefit from it. Continue using it as recommended by your doctor and complete the dose even if you feel better. The most common side effects seen with this medicine include headache, high blood pressure, upper respiratory tract infection, increased liver enzymes, and nasopharyngitis. Consult your doctor if any of the side effects persist or bother you.
Directions for Use
Your doctor or nurse will use this device to give medicine. You or your care giver may be taught on how to use this device at home.
Safety Information
Side Effects
headache high blood pressure upper respiratory tract infection increased liver enzymes nasopharyngitis
Alcohol Warning
Consuming alcohol with Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe does not cause any harmful side effects.
Breastfeeding Warning
Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you.
How it works
Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe blocks the action of certain chemical messengers that are responsible for inflammation, swelling, and redness associated with certain joint diseases.
Quick Tips
Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe is given as a drip (intravenous infusion) or as an injection directly into a vein. You may be asked for regular blood tests to check blood counts, cholesterol level, and liver functioning during the treatment. It might make you feel dizzy. If this happens, avoid driving or operating on machinery. It makes it hard to fight with an infection. Inform your doctor if you notice fever, cough, or stomach pain. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Do not stop taking medicine without talking to your doctor first.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for treatment with Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe?
Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe is indicated for the treatment of patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 infection who experience persistent reduction in oxygen levels (hypoxia) that continues to worsen despite 24 to 48 hours of corticosteroid therapy and supportive care.
Are there any specific populations who should avoid treatment with Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe?
No, this medication is not suitable for all COVID-19 patients. Its use is only considered when the potential benefits outweigh the associated risks, as it can lead to persistent serious infections and prolonged viral shedding. This makes its administration strictly necessary in patients who are at a high risk of complications from COVID-19.
What are the possible side effects of Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe?
Potential side effects of Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe include anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction) during or after infusion, transaminitis (high liver enzyme levels), leukopenia (low white blood cells leading to increased susceptibility to infections), and neutropenia (abnormally low neutrophil count). Other potential side effects include risk of serious bacterial, viral, and reactivation of tuberculosis (TB).
What medical conditions necessitate refraining from Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe?
Patients with pre-existing liver enzyme abnormalities (transaminitis), low platelet counts (<50,000), or a history of TB should not receive Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe. Additionally, its use is contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding mothers due to its potential for serious complications.
What actions should be taken if there's no improvement with Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe?
If there is no improvement after administering Actemra 162mg Prefilled Syringe, your doctor will determine the next steps. It's important to understand that this medication primarily prevents lung inflammation but does not directly cure existing disease damage. Lungs may require additional time for recovery. Persistent breathlessness following administration requires further evaluation for other potential lung-related issues (pulmonary intravascular coagulopathy) or heart-related problems (cardiac dysfunction). Additionally, any potential bacterial infections must be treated separately.
