Tocilizumab Solution for injection
What is this medicine?
Tocilizumab is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This medicine helps reduce joint pain and swelling. This medicine is often used with other medicines.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
cancer
diabetes
diverticulitis
heart disease
hepatitis B or history of hepatitis B infection
high blood pressure
high cholesterol
history of pancreatitis
immune system problems
infection (especially a virus infection such as chickenpox, cold sores, or herpes)
liver disease
low blood counts, like low white cell, platelet, or red cell counts
multiple sclerosis
recently received or scheduled to receive a vaccine
scheduled to have surgery
stomach ulcer
stroke
tuberculosis, a positive skin test for tuberculosis or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tuberculosis
an unusual or allergic reaction to tocilizumab, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
Keep appointments for follow-up doses as directed. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
You will be tested for tuberculosis (TB) before you start this medicine. If your doctor prescribes any medicine for TB, you should start taking the TB medicine before starting this medicine. Make sure to finish the full course of TB medicine.
Talk to your doctor about your risk of cancer. You may be more at risk for certain types of cancers if you take this medicine.
Call your doctor or health care professional for advice if you get a fever, chills or sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. This drug decreases your body's ability to fight infections. Try to avoid being around people who are sick.
Your healthcare provider will do blood tests before you start this medicine and every 4 to 8 weeks while taking this medicine.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
fever or chills, sore throat
stomach pain
unusual bleeding or bruising
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.