Actemra

I don't have any experience with Actemra but while you wait for others with experience this article might help answer some of your questions - Actemra dosage: Forms, strengths, how to use, and more: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-actemra-dosage.

You also might want to scan through the many other discussions and comments from members who have experience with Actemra. Here's a search of Connect with the links - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/search/?search=+Actemra

I started my Actemra infusions in January 2024. I chose the infusions. If I would have gone the shot route, my Medicare Part D would come into play. I would have had to deal with co-pays. I'm not even sure if my prescription plan would have covered them. I know that Kevzara is not approved in my plan. My Medicare and supplemental pay for the infusions, since they are administered in a medical setting. As far as bloodwork and frequency, your doctor should know what the manufacturer recommends, and include that in an order for the bloodwork. I double checked my required bloodwork and frequency yesterday, when I got my infusion. My rheumatologist followed the recommendations that the manufacturer recommends. As far as side effects, I have not had any. I have kept a health journal since June 2024, when I was first diagnosed with PMR/GCA. That's when I started on 60 mg. of Prednisone. I listen to my body and if something that doesn't seem right persists, I contact my rheumatologist. (The practice has texting set up. When I have questions/concerns, I send a text that is forwarded to the PA. I usually get a response the same day.)

Actemra has been a game changer for me. I've been able to step down my Prednisone from 15 mg. to 5 mg., without any flares. I feel so much better. I'm not 100%, but I'm 100% better than last summer. Good luck to you.