Abrar M. Radwan Saleh Dr. Adham Abo-Taha An-Najah National University College of Pharmacy Pharmacy Program: Pharm D

Drug Name: Actemra (tocilizumab) Company: Genentech Approval Status: Approved January 2010 Treatment Area: rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. this can contribute to inflammation, pain, fatigue and other symptoms. Joint pain is a common symptom of RA, but RA can also affect the rest of your body.

Therapeutic uses: ACTEMRA is used to treat adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) after Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) antagonist has been failed. Actemra-(IL-6) receptor inhibitor- is a recombinant humanized anti-human (IL-6) receptor monoclonal antibody of the immunoglobulin IgG1 kappa. It binds specifically to IL-6 receptors. Administered as solution for intravenous infusion. For adults given once every 4 weeks as a 60-minute single intravenous drip infusion is 4 mg/kg followed by an increase to 8 mg/kg based on clinical response.

Mechanism of Action Actemra is a recombinant humanized anti-human (IL-6) receptor monoclonal antibody of the immunoglobulin IgG1 kappa subclass. Actemra binds specifically to both soluble and membrane-bound IL-6 receptors (sIL-6R and mIL-6R), and has been shown to inhibit IL-6-mediated signaling through these receptors. IL-6 is produced by synovial and endothelial cells leading to local production of IL-6 in joints affected by inflammatory processes such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Common Side Effects Upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections) Nasopharyngitis Headache Hypertension

References: information/fda-approvals/drug- details.aspx?DrugID=