There are 2 ways to take ACTEMRA: subcutaneous administration and intravenous infusion. If you are giving your child the subcutaneous administration, your child’s doctor or nurse will train you to properly inject ACTEMRA. Also, your child's doctor or nurse will train your child to self-inject ACTEMRA, if both you and the doctor find it appropriate. Please follow the directions below.
This is not a complete list of all the things to know before using the ACTEMRA prefilled syringe or ACTEMRA ACTPen® autoinjector. Remember to download the Instructions for Use or watch the ACTEMRA SC Injection Training Videos for more guidance.
If you have any questions or concerns about your ACTEMRA prefilled syringe or ACTPen autoinjector, please contact your healthcare provider familiar with ACTEMRA or call 1-800-ACTEMRA.
Make sure to check:
Blood test. At the start of your child's ACTEMRA treatment, his or her doctor will do blood tests every 2-4 weeks.
Reviewing safety. Before your child starts on ACTEMRA, make sure you review the ACTEMRA Medication Guide. Take note of the following sections:
Choose an injection site. The front of your child’s thigh and abdomen–except for the 2-inch area around his or her navel–as well as the outer areas of the upper arms, are the recommended injection sites. The outer area of the upper arms may also be used only if the injection is being given by a caregiver. Do not attempt to inject into the upper arm area by yourself. Choose a different injection site for each new injection at least 1 inch from the last area injected. Refer to the Instructions for Use or the ACTEMRA SC Injection Training Videos for more guidance.
Prepare injection site:
Provide distraction. Distract your child with a favorite game or song to help reduce pain and keep your child calm.
Remember to keep an eye out for any side effects during and after your child’s injection. Allergic reactions may happen even if they have not happened before. Please seek immediate medical attention if your child starts to experience any serious allergic reaction, including:
Please refer to the Instructions for Use for more information.
Make infusions less stressful for your child. Because ACTEMRA is given over the course of an hour, here are some tips to make the infusion appointment more comfortable for you and your child.
Blood test. At the start of your child’s ACTEMRA treatment, his or her doctor will do blood tests every 2-4 weeks.
Reviewing safety. Before your child starts on ACTEMRA, make sure you review the ACTEMRA Medication Guide. Take note of the following sections:
Monitoring. While receiving treatment, a doctor or nurse will monitor your child. ACTEMRA may lead to serious allergic reactions, including death. These events may happen at any infusion, even if they have not happened before. Let your doctor or nurse know if your child is experiencing:
However, a doctor or nurse should always be on hand during your child’s infusion to respond to any reactions and answer any questions you may have.
Monitoring. Pay attention to how your child is feeling during and after every infusion. Let the doctor or nurse know right away if your child is having any reactions such as shortness of breath.
Scheduling. Remember to schedule your child’s next ACTEMRA infusion appointment and lab tests.
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