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When considering the use of Actemra (tocilizumab), it is crucial to be aware of the associated safety information and potential risks. Below is a summary of the key warnings and precautions:

• Risk of Infections: Actemra may impair your body's ability to fight infections, increasing the likelihood of bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. This risk is heightened if you are also using other immune-suppressing drugs. Additionally, Actemra may reactivate dormant viruses such as tuberculosis (TB) or hepatitis B. Inform your healthcare provider if you encounter symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. Treatment for existing infections should be completed before commencing Actemra.

• Stomach Issues: There is a potential risk of stomach tears or intestinal blockages with Actemra, especially if you have a history of gastrointestinal problems or are using NSAIDs. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience stomach pain or detect blood in your urine or stool.

• Liver Health: Though uncommon, Actemra can cause serious liver issues, which can lead to liver failure. Regular liver function tests will be conducted to monitor your liver health. Be vigilant for symptoms such as abdominal swelling, jaundice, or changes in stool color, and seek immediate medical care if these arise.

• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, may occur. If you experience symptoms such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or a choking sensation, seek emergency medical help.

• Blood Cell Counts: Actemra may reduce white blood cell and platelet counts, raising the risk of infections and bleeding. Regular blood tests will be conducted to monitor these levels. Report any signs of infection or unusual bleeding to your healthcare provider promptly.

• Cholesterol Levels: Actemra can increase cholesterol levels. Your cholesterol will be monitored, and lifestyle changes or medication may be recommended to manage cholesterol levels.

• Vaccinations: Ensure your vaccinations are current before starting Actemra. Avoid live vaccines during treatment, as there is a risk of illness.

These precautions highlight the importance of monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider while using Actemra to mitigate risks and ensure safe use.

When taking this medication, some individuals may experience common side effects, which are generally mild. These include headaches, upper respiratory tract infections, and high blood pressure, each affecting up to 7% of users, as well as elevated liver enzymes affecting up to 6%. Injection site reactions such as irritation, redness, or pain may also occur. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

There are other side effects reported by some users, such as dizziness, bronchitis, rash, mouth sores, and stomach pain. Although these are less common, contacting a healthcare professional is recommended if they occur, especially if they are severe.

It is important to be aware of rare but serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include severe infections characterized by fever, tiredness, chills, cough, or trouble breathing, and serious allergic reactions manifesting as hives, rash, blisters, skin reddening, or swelling of the lips or tongue. Worsening liver issues or liver failure are also grave concerns, with symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or confusion. Always seek urgent medical care if you experience any of these severe reactions.

Some medications and vaccines may interact with Actemra (tocilizumab), influencing how it works or heightening side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about any prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or supplements you are currently using.

Actemra can interact with other drugs that affect the immune system, such as certolizumab and corticosteroids like Prednisone. It may also accelerate the elimination of certain medications from your body, potentially reducing their effectiveness. This includes drugs like Omeprazole, Warfarin, and some cholesterol-lowering medications like Atorvastatin, Lovastatin, and Simvastatin.

Additionally, Actemra could decrease the effectiveness of hormonal birth control methods, such as pills, patches, or rings, which might lead to an unintended pregnancy. It is advisable to discuss with your doctor whether you should use an additional, reliable form of birth control while taking Actemra. Be sure to report any unusual bleeding or spotting to your doctor, as this may indicate that your birth control is not working effectively.

Certain vaccines, particularly live vaccines, may not be recommended with Actemra. These include vaccines for adenovirus, BCG, cholera, dengue, influenza, measles, mumps, polio, rotavirus, rubella, smallpox, typhoid, varicella, yellow fever, and zoster. If your doctor prescribes both Actemra and any of these vaccines or medications, they might adjust the dosage or frequency to manage potential interactions.