Abatacept
Drug Class: Biologics (Selective co-stimulation modulator)
Brand Names: Orencia
Dosages
Injection: For RA, after a single IV infusion loading dose (optional) based on body weight, one 125 mg injection within a day, followed by 125 mg injection once a week. For PsA, one 125 mg injection once a week.
IV infusion: Dosage is based on body weight and ranges from 500 mg to 1,000 mg per treatment for adults with RA or PsA, or children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. IV infusions are given at 0, 2 and 4 weeks, and then repeated every 4 weeks.
Potential Side Effects
Cough; dizziness; headache; itching, pain, redness or swelling at the injection site; infusion reaction during or shortly after treatment (including blood pressure changes, chest pain, difficulty breathing and hives); sore throat.
Special Instructions
Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment.
Be Aware
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who take abatacept should have their respiratory status monitored.
All biologics suppress the immune system and may increase your risk of infections. Tell your doctor if you have an active infection. Do not start treatment if you have a serious or recurrent infection (such as pneumonia). You should be tested for tuberculosis before starting this medication. Do not get a live vaccine when taking biologics.
LAST UPDATED: 07/25/2017
