Why is this medication prescribed?

Orencia (abatacept) is a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of certain autoimmune conditions, specifically rheumatoid arthritis (RA), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It belongs to a class of medications called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Orencia is prescribed to help reduce the signs and symptoms of these autoimmune diseases, including joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. It works by targeting a specific protein called CD80/86, which is involved in the activation of immune cells that contribute to inflammation and joint damage in these conditions. By inhibiting CD80/86, Orencia helps regulate the immune response and reduce the chronic inflammation associated with autoimmune arthritis.

Orencia is often prescribed when other conventional DMARDs or biologic therapies have not provided sufficient relief or have been poorly tolerated. It can be used alone or in combination with other DMARDs, such as methotrexate.

How should this medicine be used?

Orencia (abatacept) is typically administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion or as a subcutaneous injection. The specific dosage and administration instructions should be provided by your healthcare professional, and it’s important to follow their guidance and the instructions on the medication label. Here is a general overview of how Orencia is commonly used:

1. Intravenous Infusion:
   • Orencia IV infusion is usually administered by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, such as a clinic or hospital.
   • The infusion is given over a period of time, typically 30 minutes.
   • The dosage and frequency of the infusions will depend on your specific condition and treatment plan, as determined by your healthcare professional.
   • The initial dose may involve multiple infusions, followed by regular maintenance infusions.
2. Subcutaneous Injection:
   • Orencia subcutaneous injection can be self-administered at home after proper training from a healthcare professional.
   • The injections are typically given in the abdomen or thigh.
   • The dosage and frequency of the injections will be determined by your healthcare professional based on your condition.
   • The injection site should be rotated to different areas with each injection to prevent irritation.

It’s important to adhere to the recommended schedule and not miss any doses unless advised by your healthcare professional. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Orencia or the specific instructions for your treatment, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

Orencia is primarily approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. However, it may also be used in other autoimmune conditions, such as psoriatic arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The use of Orencia for these conditions should be discussed with your doctor, as they will consider the potential benefits and risks based on your specific situation.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding precautions, here are some important considerations for using Orencia:

• Infections: Orencia can increase the risk of infections, including serious and potentially life-threatening infections. Before starting treatment, it’s essential to inform your healthcare professional if you have any current infections or a history of recurrent infections. You should also promptly report any signs or symptoms of infection during treatment, such as fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms.
• Vaccinations: Live vaccines should be avoided while taking Orencia due to the potential for an inadequate response to the vaccine and an increased risk of infection. It is advisable to discuss vaccination plans with your healthcare professional.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Orencia. If you develop signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Pre-existing Conditions: It’s important to inform your healthcare professional about any pre-existing medical conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, or a history of cancer, as these may require special considerations when using Orencia.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Orencia during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare professional if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

These are general precautions, and individual circumstances may vary. It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Orencia, taking into account your specific medical history and needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Orencia (abatacept) does not typically have any specific dietary instructions. You can generally continue with your regular diet while using this medication. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a balanced and healthy diet to support your overall well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Orencia, contact your healthcare provider or follow their instructions. The appropriate course of action will depend on the specific circumstances and the dosing schedule you are following. It’s generally recommended not to double the dose to make up for a missed dose unless explicitly advised by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Orencia (abatacept) may cause side effects in some individuals. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. It’s important to note that the following list is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. If you are taking Orencia and experience any concerning or persistent side effects, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Common side effects of Orencia may include:

• Headache
• Upper respiratory tract infection (such as the common cold)
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Cough
• Dizziness
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Back pain
• Redness, itching, or swelling at the injection site (with subcutaneous injection)

Less common, but potentially serious, side effects of Orencia may include:

• Serious Infections: Orencia can increase the risk of infections, including serious and potentially life-threatening ones. Symptoms of infection may include fever, chills, persistent cough, flu-like symptoms, or urinary tract infection symptoms. Promptly report any signs of infection to your healthcare professional.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Orencia. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop any of these symptoms.
• Worsening Heart Failure: Orencia may worsen heart failure symptoms in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Inform your healthcare professional if you have a history of heart failure or any other heart-related conditions.
• Hepatitis B Reactivation: In individuals with a history of hepatitis B infection, Orencia may cause reactivation of the virus. It’s important to inform your healthcare professional if you have a history of hepatitis B.
• Blood Disorders: Rare cases of blood disorders, such as low white blood cell counts, low platelet counts, and anemia, have been reported with Orencia.

These are not all the possible side effects of Orencia. Different individuals may react differently to the medication. If you have concerns about side effects or experience any unusual symptoms while taking Orencia, it’s essential to seek medical attention and consult with your healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

1. Storage:
   • Orencia vials or pre-filled syringes should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
   • Protect the medication from light.
   • Do not freeze Orencia.
   • Keep Orencia out of the reach of children and pets.
2. Disposal:
   • Unused or expired Orencia should be disposed of properly. Follow local regulations or consult with your healthcare professional or pharmacist for guidance on the proper disposal of medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe dizziness, severe headache, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Check-ups: While using Orencia, your healthcare professional will likely monitor your condition and response to the medication through regular check-ups and laboratory tests. Attend these appointments as scheduled and discuss any concerns or changes in your health.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare professional about all the medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, that you are taking. Some medications may interact with Orencia and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
• Informing Other Healthcare Providers: It is important to inform other healthcare providers, such as dentists or surgeons, about your use of Orencia before undergoing any surgical or dental procedures. They can provide guidance on how to manage the medication around the time of the procedure.
• Regular Vaccinations: Discuss vaccination plans with your healthcare professional, as some vaccines may be recommended before starting Orencia. However, live vaccines should be avoided while on Orencia treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Orencia with your healthcare professional.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the medication label. If you have any specific questions or concerns about storage, disposal, emergencies, or other important information, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized guidance.