Provider Summary
Primary Uses
Rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, and other inflammatory indications per label/payer criteria.
Mechanism of Action
IL‑6 receptor antagonist reduces inflammatory signaling.
Pre-treatment / Baseline Requirement
Baseline CBC and liver function tests are recommended; baseline lipids are commonly obtained; screen for TB; review history of diverticulitis/GI disease (GI perforation risk); screen for active infection; vaccination review.
Common side effects
Upper respiratory infections, headache, hypertension, elevated liver enzymes, injection-site reactions (SQ).
Serious adverse effects / key risks
Serious infections; GI perforation (especially with diverticulitis risk); hepatotoxicity; neutropenia/thrombocytopenia; lipid elevations; hypersensitivity.
Referral requirements
Standard infusion referral form + drug-specific checklist
Patient & Caregiver Education
What it treats
Rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, and other inflammatory indications
How it works
IL‑6 receptor antagonist reduces inflammatory signaling.
Before treatment
Tell your clinician if you have an active infection/fever, are pregnant/planning pregnancy, or have major heart/nerve problems. Depending on the medication, you may need labs or screening tests (e.g., TB/hepatitis) and a vaccine review.
Common side effects
Upper respiratory infections, headache, hypertension, elevated liver enzymes, injection-site reactions.
Get urgent help for:
Serious infections; GI perforation; hepatotoxicity; neutropenia/thrombocytopenia; lipid elevations; hypersensitivity.
On treatment Day:
Plan to stay for monitoring. If you feel dizzy, drowsy, or unwell afterward, do not drive and follow your clinician’s instructions.