Abatacept

What is Abatacept?

ABATACEPT (Orencia®) may be used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in adults. Generic abatacept is not yet available.

What should my health care professional know before I receive Abatacept?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• asthma

• blood disorders

• cancer

• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• cystic fibrosis

• depressed immune system or other immune disorders

• diabetes

• emphysema

• infection

• smoke tobacco products

• tuberculosis, a positive skin test for TB, or been around someone with TB

• an unusual or allergic reaction to abatacept, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should this medicine be used?

Abatacept is for infusion into a vein. It is administered in a hospital or clinic setting by a health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss a dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What drug(s) may interact with Abatacept?

• adalimumab

• anakinra

• atropine

• etanercept

• infliximab

• medicines that decrease your immune function like cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, and azathioprine

• scopolamine

• vaccines

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Abatacept?

Make sure to see your health care provider for follow-up on your treatment. Abatacept is often given in combination with other agents such as corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory drugs, and methotrexate to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

If you get a cold or other infection while receiving abatacept, call your prescriber or health care professional; do not treat yourself. Sinus infections are common in patients taking abatacept. Abatacept may decrease your body's ability to fight infection.

Tell your doctor or prescriber if you are going to have surgery.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Abatacept?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

• fever, chills, or any other sign of infection

• rash or hives

• swollen face, eyelids, lips, tongue, or throat

• trouble breathing

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• dizziness

• headache

• nausea, vomiting

• upset stomach

Where can I keep my medicine?

Abatacept is administered in a hospital or clinic setting by an appropriate healthcare professional. You will not take this medicine home.