myRAteam

Actemra (tocilizumab) is a biologic DMARD used to treat RA. Like all medications, it comes with potential side effects worth knowing about.

Common side effects include:

- Upper respiratory infections
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, stomach upset)
- Skin infections
- Urinary tract infections

More serious Show Full Answer

Actemra (tocilizumab) is a biologic DMARD used to treat RA. Like all medications, it comes with potential side effects worth knowing about.

Common side effects include:

- Upper respiratory infections
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, stomach upset)
- Skin infections
- Urinary tract infections

More serious but rarer risks include:

- Serious infections (due to immune system suppression)
- Blood clots
- Heart problems
- Certain cancers One thing worth knowing is that Actemra works by blocking a protein called interleukin-6, which is responsible for inflammation in RA. Because of this, CRP levels (a marker of inflammation) are often monitored during treatment to check how well it's working.

It's really important to have an open conversation with a rheumatologist about personal health history before starting or continuing Actemra. They can help weigh the benefits against the risks based on individual circumstances. Never stop taking it suddenly without medical guidance.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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