| Generic name | Tocilizumab |
| Brand name(s), other common name(s) | Actemra® |
| Drug type | Interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor |
| How the drug is given | Intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously |
Indications and Usage
Tocilizumab is approved for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell-induced severe or life-threatening cytokine release syndrome (CRS).
CRS, which is caused by an overactive immune response, has been identified as a potentially severe and life-threatening side effect of CAR T cell therapy for certain cancers.
Side effects needing medical attention
Upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis (inflammatory attack of the pharynx and nasal cavities), headache, hypertension, increased ALT (alanine aminotransferase [enzyme]) and injection site reactions.
WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS INFECTIONS
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
- Serious infections leading to hospitalization or death including tuberculosis (TB), bacterial, invasive fungal, viral, and other opportunistic infections have occurred in patients receiving Actemra.
- If a serious infection develops, interrupt Actemra until the infection is controlled.
- Perform test for latent TB; if positive, start treatment for TB prior to starting Actemra.
- Monitor all patients for active TB during treatment, even if initial latent TB test is negative.
For information on how to manage the costs of drug therapy, please see Financial Support, or to speak with an Information Specialist, call (800) 955-4572.