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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I started taking Orencia about 3 months ago. I am having issues with coughing and losing my voice. Is anyone else experiencing this?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Saint John, NB

I had the same issues on Cimzia but cleared up after stopping the drug.
I also battle with allergies

July 23
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myRAteam

Coughing and voice changes can be side effects worth paying close attention to when on a biologic like Orencia, especially since you experienced something similar with Cimzia. That's a pattern your rheumatologist really needs to know about.

Since Orencia works by suppressing parts of the immune system, upper respiratory Show Full Answer

Coughing and voice changes can be side effects worth paying close attention to when on a biologic like Orencia, especially since you experienced something similar with Cimzia. That's a pattern your rheumatologist really needs to know about.

Since Orencia works by suppressing parts of the immune system, upper respiratory issues are among the known potential side effects. Allergies can also complicate things, making it harder to pinpoint the exact cause.

Here's what's worth considering:

- The fact that this happened on both Cimzia and Orencia is an important detail for your doctor
- Allergies could be contributing, but the overlap with two different biologics is significant
- It's been 3 months, which is also around the time your doctor would typically evaluate whether the medication is working well for you

Please don't stop taking Orencia without speaking to your rheumatologist first. They may want to:

- Investigate whether the symptoms are drug-related or allergy-related
- Adjust your treatment plan if needed
- Consider switching to a biologic from a different class if Orencia isn't the right fit

Your experience is valuable information — your rheumatologist needs to hear it so they can advocate for the best path forward for you.

July 23
A myRAteam Member

Thanks for your reply. I've been on biologics(Rituxin) for years and never had an issue. Unfortunately I had to stop because of a reaction. Then started with the Cimzia. I had constant respiratory infections. Had hoped Orencia would be different.

July 24
A myRAteam Member

I get frequent upper respiratory, cold-like symptoms with every biologic I've tried. If it includes chest congestion, it will cause coughing and voice changes. I have seasonal allergies too, and these respiratory/cold symptoms, I often think allergies first with the sneezing, watery eyes, sinus block etc. But I then realize it's the side effects of the biologic, not allergies.
This problem is #1 common side effect of many biologics. I've never stopped a biologic because of this. The RA drug generally proves to not work well enough on my symptoms.

July 24

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