Tocilizumab

Indications and Usage

Tocilizumab is approved for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell-induced severe or life-threatening cytokine release syndrome (CRS).

CRS, which is caused by an overactive immune response, has been identified as a potentially severe and life-threatening side effect of CAR T cell therapy for certain cancers.

Side effects needing medical attention

Upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis (inflammatory attack of the pharynx and nasal cavities), headache, hypertension, increased ALT (alanine aminotransferase [enzyme]) and injection site reactions.

 

WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS INFECTIONS

See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.

• Serious infections leading to hospitalization or death including tuberculosis (TB), bacterial, invasive fungal, viral, and other opportunistic infections have occurred in patients receiving Actemra.
• If a serious infection develops, interrupt Actemra until the infection is controlled.
• Perform test for latent TB; if positive, start treatment for TB prior to starting Actemra.
• Monitor all patients for active TB during treatment, even if initial latent TB test is negative.