Injection Reaction

[conniegraham]

hey there,

I’ve been getting red and swollen reactions every time I do my weekly tocilizumab injections, despite following all advice from my rheumy team. I am thinking about what antihistamine might work best, and was wondering for any suggestions? I’m currently using piriton but it doesn’t seem to be doing the job.

Thank you!

[bubblyalex]

I would take a photo of what is going on and send it to your team so they can see what is going on ... really you need more input from them. I wouldn’t take an antihistamine unless they advise it.

[ruth_p]

I had this for the first month of injections with Tocilizumab. I took Benadryl (Acrivastine) before I injected and used an ice pack afterwards. I stopped getting the reaction after swapping from injecting my leg to my stomach. If it continues you should definitely contact your rheumatology team. Good luck 🤞

[TytoAlba]

I use a different biologic (Enbrel) and when I was being shown how to inject myself, I was told by the nurse to ask my GP for a regular script for Fexofenadine as it's the best antihistamine to minimise the reaction. I've never had a reaction since taking Fexofenadine so I assume it works - at least it does with Enbrel......