Actemra

Actemra (tocilizumab) is an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist. This biologic therapy is used to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions.

Actemra has been shown to reduce inflammation and swelling, slow the progression of joint damage, reduce joint tenderness, and ease everyday activities.

Actemra works by blocking the receptor sites for IL-6. IL-6 is a protein that can cause inflammation of the body’s immune cells. Blocking this process helps to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.

What is Actemra?

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

  • Giant Cell Arteritis in adults

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS); CAR-T cell-induced severe or life-threatening CRS from cancer treatments

  • Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease (SSc-ILD) – Slows the decline of pulmonary function

  • Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (PJIA)

  • Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SJIA) – Patients 2 years of age and older with active systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

  • Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Off-Label)

What Does Actemra Treat?

  • Upper respiratory tract infections

  • Headache

  • Increased blood pressure

  • Injection site reaction

  • Click here for additional side effects

Possible Side Effects

Infusion Duration

1 Hour​

Infusion Cycle

2-4 Weeks

  1. Remember to drink plenty of water so you are hydrated for your appointment.

  2. Your nurse will review your medical history, check your vitals, and discuss any questions and potential side effects of your infusion therapy.

  3. Your nurse will begin your infusion and monitor you closely during your treatment.

  4. You’ll continue to be monitored for 30 minutes post your infusion to ensure there are no reactions to the therapy.

IMPORTANT: Remember to let us know of any changes in your insurance prior to your visit to ensure that we are still an in-network provider for your infusion therapy.​

What to Expect During Your Infusion:

Why Patients Choose Flourish for Infusion Treatments

At Flourish, our mission is providing patients with expert medical care and a relaxing spa-like infusion experience. Data suggests that care at ambulatory infusion centers costs over 50% less than the same services offered at hospitals. We also increase affordability with co-pay assistance and additional financial aid programs to our patients. Our clinical model ensures a 3:1 patient to nurse ratio. Popular entertainment streaming options, high speed WiFi access, relaxing recliners, and delicious food and beverage selections pamper patients and provide them with an experience they can enjoy for hours.