Tocilizumab - What is it for
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Adult

Tocilizumab - What is it for

Tocilizumab belongs to a new class of medicines called biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (biological DMARDs).

These medicines block natural substances called cytokines, which are found in excessive amounts in the blood and joints of people with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

The increased levels of cytokines cause inflammation, which results in symptoms of pain, joint swelling and stiffness, and can lead to joint damage.

By blocking the cytokine called interleukin-6 (IL-6), tocilizumab reduces inflammation, lessens the symptoms and helps stop further joint damage.

  • Updated on 6/12/2015 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Pharmacy, Rheumatology & Immunology Singapore General Hospital
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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