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I like doing a monthly infusion of Actemra compared to doing the injections. From start to finish an infusion takes about 2 hours and then I'm good to go for another month. Sometimes I go 5-6 weeks between infusions but 7 weeks gets to be too long. My inflammation markers start increasing again after 6 weeks.
Actemra is off patent so there are already biosimilars that cost less.
https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/fda-approves-tocilizumab-aazg-as-biosimilar-to-actemra-for-multiple-indications
Replies to "I like doing a monthly infusion of Actemra compared to doing the injections. From start to..."
My doctor is starting me with every 4 weeks for my infusion. How long have you been taking the infusions? Are you still taking prednisone?
HI @dadcue =- I was wondering why Dr Sattui mentioned that costs should go down with the generic anti-IL6R biologicals !! Has there ever been a TV commercial I wonder ? so many drugs advertised during football playoffs !
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This is good to know about the Actemra biosimilar. I just injected my last dose of the Kevzara (can't afford $16,000 a year since I was kicked off the patient assistance program with the drug company). At my last MD visit he agreed that I should try going off the Kevzara and see what happens. It did take away my PMR symptoms, but they returned when I dropped below 5 mg prednisone. If symptoms come back he said he "might" be able to get me on Actemra. For anyone wondering what a drug will cost, and they are on Medicare Part D, go to "Medicare.gov", then "health and drug plans", then "find and compare". It wouldn't have helped me to go on a higher tier in my plan since no plan offered in my county will cover Kevzara.