Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is Actemra. It helps treat conditions that have significant inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, certain types of juvenile arthritis, giant cell arteritis and cytokine release syndrome. It may have other uses, too.

For some people, Actemra is given as an injection under the skin. Before using it at home, your doctor will teach you how to give the dose and how to dispose of it. You should read the full 'Instructions for Use'. If you still have questions, your doctor or pharmacist can help. 

Other people will receive Actemra as an infusion into a vein at the doctor's office or clinic. 

Most people tolerate this medicine well. Common side effects include a headache and reactions at the injection site. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. Tell your doctor if you get a sore throat or a cold. Your doctor will watch for high blood pressure. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking Actemra, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects could occur. With Actemra, these include tears in the stomach or intestines, an increased risk of certain types of cancer, serious infections and more. You should read the Medication Guide to know which symptoms to watch for and when to report changes. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely and will order blood tests.

Actemra can interact with other medicines. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines and before getting vaccines.  

Women should check with their doctors before becoming pregnant and before breastfeeding.

For best results with Actemra, work with your doctor on tracking your symptoms and setting your treatment goals.