Tocilizunab

Dosage Forms Available

• Tocilizumab is available for administration as an intravenous infusion or subcutaneous injection. These methods allow the medicine to be delivered directly into the bloodstream or injected just below the skin respectively.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Tocilizumab is meant for adults and children from the age of 2 years and above. It is used for managing several chronic inflammatory conditions.

Contraindications

• Tocilizumab is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of its components.
• It is also contraindicated in patients with active infections.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine may interact with other biological disease-modifying antirheumatic medications (such as TNF inhibitors like adalimumab and infliximab), live vaccines (like typhoid), and anticoagulants (such as warfarin).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Tocilizumab may lead to an increased risk of serious infections or potential liver injury. If suspected, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
• If a dose of Tocilizumab is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible, then continue with the regular treatment schedule. However, if it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and proceed as normal. Do not administer two doses at the same time.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage injection site reactions, changing the site of injection may help.
• For mild headaches, resting in a quiet, dark room and staying hydrated might offer relief.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Tocilizumab does not generally affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, individual responses to medication can vary, so it is important to understand how you react to Tocilizumab before engaging in such activities.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The safety of Tocilizumab in pregnancy or during breastfeeding has not been fully established. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is essential to consult your doctor before starting Tocilizumab.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution should be exercised when administering Tocilizumab to patients with hepatic impairment or those with a history of gastrointestinal perforation.
• Patients with neutropenia or thrombocytopenia should also use Tocilizumab with caution due to an increased risk of infection.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

For patients being treated with Tocilizumab for inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis:

• A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help manage inflammation.
• Regular physical activity can help maintain joint function and reduce stiffness. Consider activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling which are less stressful on joints.
• Avoid smoking as it can worsen the symptoms of inflammatory diseases.
• Limiting alcohol consumption can also be beneficial as excessive alcohol can interfere with some medications and exacerbate inflammation.