Actemra Infusion Therapy

See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including Actemra Infusion treatments.

Actemra is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:

  • Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who has had an inadequate response to one or more disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

  • Giant cell arteritis (GCA)

  • Active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis

  • Active systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis

  • Actemra (tocilizumab) is an FDA-approved prescription medication administered for patients in all IVX Health centers via IV infusion. Actemra is a type of medication called an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist and has been used to treat a variety of complex conditions by changing the way your immune system works. 

    Actemra works by blocking the action of a bodily protein called interleukin-6 (IL-6). This protein is believed to play a part in rheumatoid arthritis. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), this protein connects to cells and tells them to activate. When the cell activates, it may contribute to the signs and symptoms of RA.

  • Patients receive tocilizumab intravenously. Treatment time for an Actemra infusion at a medical clinic like IVX Health usually lasts roughly 60 minutes. 

    Your Actemra infusion dose is based on your weight, so before every infusion you’ll be weighed. If your weight changes, you and your healthcare provider will decide if a change in dose is necessary.  Actemra is typically administered every four weeks. 

    1.  The nurse prepares the patient’s arm by using rubbing alcohol to sterilize the location that is being used to insert the IV needle. 

    2. Following needle insertion, the IV line is held in place with tape. 

    3. The nurse attaches the patient’s IV line to the line coming down from the bag of medication. 

    Every half-an-hour, the patient’s nurse takes his or her vitals. 

  • As with all medications, side effects are possible.   

    The most common side effects of Actemra include: 

    • Upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections) 

    • Headache 

    • Increased blood pressure 

    • Injection site reactions 

    Additional rarer side effects include: 

    • Serious allergic reactions including hives, rash, or flushing 

    • Nervous system problems 

    • Hepatitis B infection 

    • Cancer 

    • Liver problems (hepatoxicity) 

    • Tears or perforation of the stomach or intestines 

    During and after treatment, patients need to inform their healthcare provider or nurse if they experience any serious or persistent side effects, including: 

    • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing 

    • Swelling of lips, tongue, or face 

    • Chest pain 

    • Feeling dizzy or faint 

    • Moderate to severe abdominal pain or vomiting  

    • Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Infusion.

    • Pre-Infusion Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Infusion tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Preparing for Your Actemra Infusion

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Actemra Infusion is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.

    • Prescription Pre-Medications: Your Actemra Infusion may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.

    • Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Infusion as directed.

    • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Infusion to ensure you are well-hydrated.

    • Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Infusion to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.

    • Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Infusion site.

    • Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.

    • Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Infusion, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.