About tocilizumab
Interleukin-6 receptor blocker
Used for
- Rheumatoid arthritis and giant cell arteritis
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, including systemic disease
- Cytokine release syndrome
- Certain hospitalized adults with severe COVID-19
Usual adult dose
Usually 4 mg/kg by intravenous infusion every four weeks for rheumatoid arthritis, increasing to 8 mg/kg if needed; other uses differ.
Usual dose in children
For juvenile arthritis, typically 8–12 mg/kg intravenously every two or four weeks, depending on weight and condition.
Common side effects
- Infections
- High liver enzymes or cholesterol
- Low blood-cell counts
- Infusion reactions
Important warnings
- Serious infections can occur; treatment may need to be paused during infection.
- May cause liver injury, low blood counts, or bowel perforation.
- Screen for tuberculosis before treatment; monitor blood tests.
- Can reduce signs of infection, including fever.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy information is limited. Use only when clearly needed; discuss risks with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Information is limited; discuss potential benefits and risks with a healthcare professional.
Interactions
- May alter effects of some medicines, including warfarin, theophylline, and certain statins.
- Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.