Orencia

Generic name: Abatacept

What is Orencia?

Orencia is a used to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

What is the most important information I should know about Orencia?

When Orencia is used with drugs known as TNF antagonists, it can increase the risk of infections, even life-threatening infections. If you have a history of recurrent infections or underlying conditions that predispose you to infections, you may be more at risk for this side effect.

Live vaccines should not be given within 3 months of discontinuing Orencia.

Who should not take Orencia?

You should not take Orencia if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Orencia?

Before you start taking Orencia, tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking. Especially talk with your doctor if you have any kind of infection, even if it is small; if you have a history of tuberculosis (TB), a positive skin test for TB, or if you recently have been in close contact with someone who has TB; if you have history of chronic obstructive pulmonary lung disease; if you have recently received a vaccination or are scheduled for one. Also talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Orencia is an infused drug administered in your doctor's office. The dosage is based on weight.

Adults less than 60 kg: 500 milligrams (mg) initially, then again 2 and 4 weeks later.

Adults: 60 to 100 kg: 750 mg initially, then again 2 and 4 weeks later.

Adults more than 100 kg: 1,000 mg initially, then again 2 and 4 weeks later.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Children less than 75 kg: 10 mg/kg based on the patient's body weight.

Children more than 75 kg should follow the adult dosing regimen, not to exceed a maximum dose of 1,000 mg.

How should I take Orencia?

Orencia is given by your doctor; it is infused via an IV tube in your arm over 30 minutes. You will receive Orencia 2 weeks and 4 weeks after the first dose, and then you will receive Orencia every 4 weeks.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Orencia?

If Orencia is taken with certain drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Orencia with: adalimubab, anakinra, etanercept, infliximab, and rituximab.

What are the possible side effects of Orencia?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: headache, upper respiratory tract infection, sore throat, nausea, diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain

Can I receive Orencia if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Orencia use in pregnant women. Orencia should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether Orencia is found in breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Orencia?

If you miss your appointment, call your doctor to schedule your next dose.

How should I store Orencia?

Orencia is kept refrigerated at your doctor's office.