Actemra is a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that is given intravenously every two weeks. It’s not your average injection, though. Actemra contains human recombinant tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) monoclonal antibodies and is also known as TNF-alpha antagonists. This simply means that it’s designed to block the activity of TNF-alpha, which plays an important role in the immune response to infection and injury. In this article, we explore Actemra side effects, how it works, its benefits and risks, who can take it and when to call your doctor if you have concerns about its effects on your body or any side effects you experience.
What is Actemra?
Actemra is a drug that is used to treat the joint pain that is a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is a type of medication called a TNF inhibitor. TNF is a protein that is naturally made by the body. It is involved in the immune system. Actemra works by blocking TNF. This protects joints from damage and pain in people with RA.
How does Actemra Work?
Actemra blocks TNF, a protein that helps the immune system fight infection and disease but also can cause inflammation in the joints in people with RA. The drug works by blocking the effects of TNF in the body, which can help to relieve inflammation of the joints, prevent joint damage, relieve pain and improve overall quality of life in people with RA.
Benefits of Actemra
Actemra can help to relieve joint pain and swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help to slow down the progression of joint damage and the need for joint replacement surgery. It can also help to reduce the number of flare-ups a person with RA experiences. Actemra can also help to reduce the number of injections a person with RA needs to take daily to control their symptoms.
Since it is a brand new treatment, there are no long-term studies to determine the possibility of side effects. Treatment with Actemra is costly. There is a risk of infusion reactions associated with the procedures used to administer the drug intravenously. There is a risk of serious infections while on treatment with Actemra.
Important Information about Actemra: Warnings and Precautions
Treatment with Actemra can lead to serious infections. Close observation and preventive antibiotic therapy are advised, particularly in the early stages of treatment. If you receive treatment with Actemra, you should have regular blood tests to monitor for infections. Before starting treatment with Actemra, inform your doctor of any history of gastrointestinal disease. Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen when outdoors during treatment with Actemra.
Who Should not Take Actemra?
Due to the risk of serious infections, a doctor may advise against taking Actemra if you have an active infection, have recently been treated for an infection, have recently been hospitalized, or have a weakened immune system. Due to the risk of serious bleeding, a doctor may advise against taking Actemra if you are taking other medications that may increase the risk of bleeding.
Final Words: A Short Guide to Understanding Actemra Intravenous
The drug Actemra is an injectable medication designed to treat the symptoms of RA. It is a TNF inhibitor that blocks the effects of TNF in the body, which can help to relieve inflammation of the joints, prevent joint damage, relieve pain and improve overall quality of life in people with RA. Although this medication can be a helpful treatment option, it can also cause serious side effects. Be sure to let your doctor know about all your medical conditions, allergies, and current medications when beginning treatment with Actemra.