Actemra..any problems when taking this..

[Wilson1952]

Was wondering what problems people have when taking Actemra weekly. I have been on it for a couple of months, slowly reducing Prednezone. Would like some information if anyone has noticed any side effects or changes. Thanks

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I can't say I have noticed anything untoward with Actemra which I have been on for over a year now. At the start I got a urinary tract infection once that was bad enough to delay the injection that week but no more since them - or at least only ones that responded entirely to a couple of doses of D-mannose.

Anything else it is difficult to differentiate from potential problems with reducing the dose of pred - you seem to have started reducing the dose very quickly, my very experienced rheumy told me to wait a couple of months at least and then only reduce 1mg at a time since I was already at a dose below 20mg.

Are you asking because you have problems you think may be the Actemra?

[Wilson1952 in reply to PMRpro]

yes, seems to be about a couple of days later that sight seems to be getting a little worse.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Wilson1952]

Then that needs following up - please get it checked.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Wilson1952]

Agree with DL - get that looked at today.

[Jim-CJ]

Hi Wilson,

My wfe has been on Actemra for over three years. Started weekly and now Biweekly. She was able to taper to 3.5 prednisone and is holding. Never any side effects. Also, her Adrenal gland has improved dramatically. Great med, but it is costing us about $6000 a year.

Good Luck,

Jim & CJ