Biologic immunosuppressant (Interleukin-6 receptor inhibitor)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Tocilizumab (sold as Actemra in Nigeria) is a biologic medicine given by injection that works by blocking a protein called interleukin-6 (IL-6) in your body, which helps reduce inflammation and calm down an overactive immune system.
Binds to interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptors on cell surfaces, blocking IL-6 signalling and suppressing the inflammatory cytokine cascade responsible for joint inflammation, systemic inflammation, and excessive immune activation in rheumatoid conditions and cytokine-mediated disorders.
Severe joint pain and swelling from rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis in children, giant cell arteritis (inflammation of blood vessels causing headache and vision problems), cytokine release syndrome (a dangerous immune reaction), severe COVID-19 requiring oxygen
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss your scheduled appointment for your infusion or injection, contact your doctor or hospital as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not try to double up or take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
This is a hospital-only medicine, so never buy it from roadside vendors or unverified pharmacies, as it must be stored in a fridge and handled properly. Make sure your doctor tests you for tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment, as it can reactivate hidden TB. Keep all your follow-up appointments so your doctor can monitor your blood counts and liver function regularly.
Avoid using with other strong immune-suppressing biologic drugs like adalimumab or etanercept as this greatly increases infection risk. Tell your doctor if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin, as tocilizumab can affect how they work. Also inform your doctor about any steroids or methotrexate you are taking so doses can be adjusted properly.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Tocilizumab with your other drugs?
Tocilizumab is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor decides the benefit clearly outweighs the risk. Consult your doctor before starting or continuing treatment if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze. In Nigeria's hot climate, never leave it outside the fridge or in direct sunlight. Do not shake the vial. Keep it in its original packaging and far away from children. If it looks cloudy or has particles, do not use it.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
No brand names recorded for Tocilizumab yet.
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.