Menu Close

Tocilizumab

Supportive Care

Brand names:

Actemra®

Other names:

Atlizumab

Often used for:

Treatment of cytokine release syndrome (CRS); juvenile arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis

clipboard icon

About Tocilizumab

Tocilizumab is used to treat severe cytokine release syndrome (CRS) during CAR T-cell immunotherapy. This drug blocks a protein called interleukin-6 (IL-6) and acts to decrease the body’s immune response (immunosuppressant) and lower cytokine production.

Patients will have regular blood draws to check blood counts and monitor kidney and liver function. Blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and temperature may be monitored to watch for infusion-related side effects.

This drug may increase the risk of infection, especially in patients with a weak immune system. Patients may be tested for tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis B before starting treatment.

iv bag icon

May be given as a liquid into a vein by IV

 
injection icon

May be given as a liquid under the skin (subcutaneous)

 
exclamation mark in a circle icon

Possible Side Effects

  • Increased risk of infection
  • Headache
  • Symptoms of a common cold (runny nose, sneezing, nose and throat irritation)
  • Irritation at the injection site
  • High blood pressure
  • Low blood counts (may cause increased risk of infection, bleeding, anemia and/or fatigue)
  • Liver problems
  • Increased blood cholesterol or triglyceride levels
  • Tears in the stomach or intestines
  • Infusion-related reactions: Symptoms may include chills, shortness of breath, coughing, dizziness, low blood pressure, pain in the chest, swelling of the face or neck

Not all patients who take tocilizumab will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

late effects icon

Possible Late Effects

Some patients may experience long-term or late effects of treatment that may continue or develop months or years after treatment ends. Possible late effects due to tocilizumab include:

  • Chronic infections
  • Second cancers
family icon

Tips for Families

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Make sure all vaccinations are up to date before starting treatment. Patients should not get certain types of vaccines (known as “live” vaccines) for 3 months after receiving tocilizumab.
  • Tocilizumab may make birth control pills and other hormone-based birth control methods less effective. Sexually active patients should also use another form of birth control, like condoms, to prevent pregnancy.
  • Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Learn More About Tocilizumab

Also see: Tisagenlecleucel

Print This Page

Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.