Actemra
Actemra
Actemra (pronounced: ak-TEM-rah), also known as tocilizumab, is a medication used in the treatment of several autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and giant cell arteritis. It is also used in the treatment of cytokine release syndrome, a severe reaction to certain types of cancer treatments.
Etymology
The name "Actemra" is a brand name, and its etymology is not publicly disclosed. The generic name, "tocilizumab", is derived from the Japanese words "to" (meaning "and"), "cil" (meaning "target"), and "izumab" (a suffix used in the names of monoclonal antibodies).
Usage
Actemra is administered by injection under the skin or into a vein. It works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called interleukin-6, which is involved in the inflammatory response.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Actemra include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, hypertension, and injection site reactions. Serious side effects may include infections, liver problems, and gastrointestinal perforations.
Related Terms
- Monoclonal antibody: A type of protein made in the laboratory that can bind to substances in the body, including cancer cells.
- Interleukin-6: A type of protein in the body that promotes inflammation.
- Autoimmune disease: A condition in which the body's immune system attacks its own cells and tissues.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Actemra
- Wikipedia's article - Actemra
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