ACTEMRA, Actemra, Actemra ACTPen

What is this medication?

Actemra, which contains the active ingredient tocilizumab, is a prescription medicine used to treat several different inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It is primarily prescribed for adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis who have not responded well to other treatments. The medication is also approved for giant cell arteritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis in pediatric patients. It works by blocking the action of interleukin-6, a specific protein in the body that causes inflammation and immune system overactivity.

Beyond joint-related conditions, Actemra is used to treat systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease and certain severe reactions caused by CAR T-cell therapy known as cytokine release syndrome. In specific clinical settings, it has also been authorized for the treatment of hospitalized adults with severe COVID-19 who require supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation. The medication is available as an intravenous infusion administered by a healthcare professional or as a subcutaneous injection, which can be self-administered using the Actemra ACTPen autoinjector. Patients should always follow their healthcare provider's specific instructions regarding dosage and administration schedules.