by Alison O'Donoghue

Created on: June 29, 2009

What is Actemra?

Actemra also known as tocilizumab is a new treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) which has been developed by the pharmaceutical company Chugai. It is a biological agent which has been specifically designed to provide benefits for patients suffering with RA.

What problems does RA cause?

Someone with RA is likely to experience pain and swelling in their joints. The small joints in the hands and feet are most often affected, but larger joints such as the shoulders, elbows, knees, hips, jaw and neck can also be involved.

People with RA may feel very stiff in the mornings, be constantly fatigued and may experience difficulty sleeping. Not surprisingly, these signs and symptoms can have major impact on quality of life leading for instance to loss of employment or a reduced social life. Small tasks such as buttoning a shirt, opening a jar or combing the hair can become difficult or impossible. Medications are needed to reduce pain and to improve joint function, allowing RA sufferers to improve their quality of life and regain their independence.

How does Actemra work to improve signs and symptoms of RA?

Patients with RA have increased levels of a protein called interleukin-6 (IL-6) in their bodies. This protein plays a key role in responding to infections or injuries, but if too much IL-6 is present, this can contribute to the development of diseases including RA. Actemra blocks the action of IL-6 in the body, meaning that the signs and symptoms of RA are improved. It can either be given alone or in combination with other medications for RA such as methotrexate. It is given by infusion into a vein, usually once every four weeks.

Evidence for the benefits of Actemra

A number of clinical trials of Actemra have been conducted in many countries. In these trials, the use of Actemra has been associated with improvements in measures of RA disease activity for instance, less pain and swelling in the joints. In addition X-ray measurements have shown less damage to the joints when Actemra is used and improvements in quality of life after Actemra treatment have been reported.

It is important to note that side effects can occur in association with Actemra therapy. These include infections of the upper respiratory tract (e.g. colds, sinus infections), headaches, dizziness and rashes. People receiving Actemra will be kept under review by their physicians. Actemra will not be a suitable choice for everyone with RA and is also likely to be only part of a detailed RA treatment plan which may include exercise, nutrition, medications and occupational therapy.

.

Learn more about this author, Alison O'Donoghue.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.