Business Hours: MON - SUN 9AM to 6PM EST

+1-844-226-8277info@medsupplysolutions.com

Blog categories

Visit blog page
Promo Banner Content

ACTEMRA®

ACTEMRA® (tocilizumab) is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets the interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R). It is approved for the treatment of several autoimmune and inflammatory conditions in both adults and children. By inhibiting IL-6-mediated signaling, ACTEMRA reduces inflammation, slows disease progression, and improves patient outcomes. It is available in both intravenous (IV) and subcutaneous (SC) formulations. If you’re looking to buy ACTEMRA® (tocilizumab) online, contact the Med Supply Solutions team for assistance.
Unlock a World of Possibilities by Signing Up.If our initial offerings haven't caught your eye, there's more we can do. Register for specialized product consultations aimed at exploring the full potential of your clinic's services.
Home image

ACTEMRA® Mechanism of Action

ACTEMRA binds to both soluble and membrane-bound IL-6 receptors, preventing IL-6 from activating its signaling pathways. IL-6 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune diseases. By blocking IL-6 signaling, ACTEMRA reduces inflammation and the immune response associated with chronic disease activity.

ACTEMRA® Indications and Approved Uses

ACTEMRA is approved for the treatment of:
  • Moderate to severe Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) in adults
  • Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (PJIA) in patients aged ≥2 years
  • Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SJIA) in patients aged ≥2 years
  • Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) in adults
  • Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) following CAR T-cell therapy
  • Severe COVID-19 pneumonia requiring corticosteroids and oxygen support (under certain emergency or conditional use protocols)

ACTEMRA® Dosage Forms and Administration Routes

ACTEMRA is available in multiple formats:
  • IV Infusion:
    • 80 mg/4 mL
    • 200 mg/10 mL
    • 400 mg/20 mL
  • Subcutaneous Injection:
    • Prefilled syringe
    • Autoinjector pen
The choice of route depends on indication, patient preference, and clinical setting. IV is often used for hospitalized patients or those needing weight-based dosing.

ACTEMRA® Dosing Guidelines

Dosing varies by condition, patient age, and weight:
  • Adult RA: 4 mg/kg IV every 4 weeks, adjustable to 8 mg/kg; or 162 mg SC weekly or every other week
  • PJIA/SJIA: Weight-based IV every 2 or 4 weeks
  • GCA: 162 mg SC weekly
  • CRS: Single IV dose (8 mg/kg, max 800 mg)
  • COVID-19: One-time IV dose, per institutional protocol

ACTEMRA® Contraindications and Precautions

ACTEMRA should not be used in patients with:
  • Known hypersensitivity to tocilizumab or excipients
  • Active or chronic infections, including tuberculosis
Use with caution in:
  • Patients with elevated liver enzymes (ALT/AST >1.5x ULN)
  • Those with low neutrophils or platelets
  • Patients receiving live vaccines

ACTEMRA® Side Effects and Safety Profile

Common side effects:
  • Upper respiratory infections
  • Headache
  • Hypertension
  • Increased liver enzymes
Serious side effects:
  • Serious infections (TB, pneumonia, fungal infections)
  • GI perforation
  • Hepatotoxicity
  • Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia
  • Anaphylaxis

ACTEMRA® Monitoring and Laboratory Tests

Regular monitoring is required before and during treatment:
  • CBC with differential: Monitor neutrophils and platelets
  • Liver function tests (ALT, AST)
  • Lipid profile: Evaluate at baseline and periodically
  • TB screening: Prior to initiating therapy

ACTEMRA® Storage and Handling

  • Store between 2°C and 8°C (36°F to 46°F)
  • Do not freeze
  • Protect from light
  • Use diluted solutions within 24 hours if stored at 2°C to 8°C
  • Do not use if solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains particulates

ACTEMRA® Clinical Efficacy and Studies

ACTEMRA has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing disease activity and improving quality of life in multiple clinical trials:
  • RA: OPTION, TOWARD, and LITHE trials showed improvement in ACR response rates and inhibition of joint damage
  • GCA: GiACTA trial demonstrated sustained remission
  • COVID-19: RECOVERY and REMAP-CAP trials supported its role in reducing mortality in severely ill patients

Frequently Asked Questions about ACTEMRA®

Can ACTEMRA be used with methotrexate? Yes, it can be used alone or with non-biologic DMARDs like methotrexate. How soon does it work? Clinical improvement is typically observed within 2 to 4 weeks. Is ACTEMRA safe during pregnancy? Use only if clearly needed; consult prescribing information and healthcare provider. Is it interchangeable between IV and SC? No. IV and SC forms are not interchangeable and have different dosing regimens.

Products

Cart

Log In

Newsletter

Subscribe for exclusive offers and updates on new arrivals

Phone/Text

+1-844-226-8277

+1-844-647-2698

Working Hours

MON - SUN 9AM to 6PM EST

The Most Popular Brands

Support

Secure checkout is guaranteed with full adherence to PCI DSS payment standards.

Products listed here are guaranteed authentic and manufacturer-sourced.

Pay easily with trusted providers

Amex Card logoGoogle Pay logoApple Pay logo

*Google and Apple Pay are currently only available via a direct link provided by your account manager.

Copyright 2025. Med Supply Solutions