Is tocilizumab a treatment option for seropositive rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes! Tocilizumab is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderately to severely active RA who haven't responded well enough to one or more DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs). It can be used alone or alongside methotrexate or other Show Full Answer
Is tocilizumab a treatment option for seropositive rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes! Tocilizumab is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderately to severely active RA who haven't responded well enough to one or more DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs). It can be used alone or alongside methotrexate or other non-biologic DMARDs. Tocilizumab works by blocking a protein in the immune system called IL-6, which plays a big role in causing inflammation and joint damage in RA. By reducing IL-6 activity, it helps ease symptoms like:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
It can be given as an IV infusion (every four weeks to start) or as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Dosage may be adjusted based on how well it's working for you. Since seropositive RA can sometimes be more aggressive and carry a higher risk of extra-articular symptoms (things happening outside the joints), it's worth having a thorough conversation with your rheumatologist about whether tocilizumab is the right fit for your specific situation and disease activity.
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Seropositive Rheumatoid Arthritis: Your Guide
October 21
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