This medicine is used for the following purposes:
- arthritis
- prevent organ transplant rejection
Brand Name(s): Orencia
Generic Name: Abatacept
Instructions
This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.
Always inspect the medicine before using.
The liquid should be clear or light yellow.
Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.
Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.
It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.
This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.
Tell your doctor or nurse right away if throat swelling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or feeling faint develop while the medicine is being given. The medicine may need to be stopped or given at a slower rate.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.
Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.
Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.
This medicine should be used with caution in patients with breathing difficulties.
Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- headaches
- pain, redness, swelling near injection
- nausea
- runny nose
- sore throat
- weight loss
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- cough that does not go away
- fever or chills
- unusual growth or lump on the neck
- shortness of breath
- skin changes - a darker area with uneven edges or coloring
- change in the size or color of a skin mole
- sweating at night
- unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
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More information about ABATACEPT - INJECTION
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Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.