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Has anyone had bowel problems while on Actemra infusions?
I have been on Actemra for a little over a year and recently developed IBS symptoms. After doing some research I’ve come to the conclusion that it might be the infusions that are causing this. It appears to be connected with the liver. I have another year to go before my rheumatologist takes me off the infusions. I’m thinking I would rather deal with these symptoms than go blind. I have GCA.
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You need to let your doctor know about your IBS symptoms ASAP. I was on Tyenne, bio-similiar to Actemra, and managed to have a mild case of diverticulitis while on it. It is a known serious side effect, and can cause death if not properly managed. There are other steroid sparing drugs that they might use. Actemra is just one, not the only drug.
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3 ReactionsAdditionally, it is not a given that you will be able to get off your steroid sparing drug. It depends on your body going into remission. Steroids are anti-inflammatory drugs. Actemra is an IL-6 inhibitor. IL-6 is a type of inflammation that is a big player in PMR and GCA inflammation. It replaces steroids to help manage your inflammation.
I have a significant history of diverticulitis.One episode with abscess which required hospitalization for Intravenous therapy.As a result I hesitated to start Actemra infusions as it is listed as having diverticulitis as a side effect.I had a significant episode of Diverticulitis with my first infusion which responded well to antibiotics.Did not require hospitalization.I have since had about fifteen Actemra infusions and have not had even one episode of diverticulitis during that time.Which is surprising as I always had at least two episodes a year. No changes in my diet which would explain this.Also I do think the GCA responded well to the Actemra treatment.