Orencia
Generic Name:
Abatacept
Brand Names:
Orencia
Orencia Description:
Orencia belongs to a group of drugs known as selective T cell costimulation modulators and is used in the treatment of arthritis. Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of the joints. It occurs when the body’s immune system functions improperly and damages healthy body tissue. Orencia works to reduce the pain associated with arthritis by inhibiting the production of T cells, which are white blood cells that play a key role in the immune system's inflammatory response.
Orencia Side Effects:
The most common side effects associated with Orencia include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Sore throat
- Upper respiratory tract infection
Orencia may be associated with other side effects.
For more information, see our Orencia side effects page.
Orencia Uses:
Orencia is used in the treatment of adult patients with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. It is also used in the treatment of moderate to severe juvenile idiopathic arthritis in patients at least six years of age. While this medication will not cure these chronic conditions, it will help alleviate the symptoms of joint pain, stiffness and swelling often associated with them.
Orencia may be used alone or alongside other medications in the treatment of arthritis.
Orencia Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before taking Orencia.
Some of the medications that may adversely interact with Orencia include:
- Adalimumab (Humira)
- Anakinra (Kineret)
- Etanercept (Enbrel)
- Infliximab (Remicade)
- Rituximab (Rituxan)
Orencia Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Orencia is administered in the form of an intravenous infusion by a health care professional. The amount of Orencia administered during the infusions may vary widely among patients. Patients generally receive an infusion two weeks following their first infusion. They also receive one two weeks after their second infusion. After their third infusion, patients generally receive an Orencia infusion every four weeks. Each infusion takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
Missing a Dose of Orencia
It is important to attend all scheduled appointments to ensure you receive Orencia infusions. If you are unable to make an appointment, contact your health care provider as soon as possible to reschedule.
Orencia Overdose
Because Orencia is administered in the form of an intravenous infusion by a health care provider, the risk of overdose is relatively low.
Orencia FDA Approval:
December 23, 2005
Orencia Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There have not been any black box warnings or recalls associated with Orencia.
Other Warnings
Patients receiving treatment with Orencia may be at increased risk of developing infection. Patients should tell their doctor about a history of recurring infections or any current infections before beginning treatment with this medication. Patients should also talk to their doctor before receiving any vaccinations once treatment has begun, as this medication may reduce their effectiveness.
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September 7, 2010, 9:59 am
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