Abatacept
Generic name: abatacept [ a-BAY-ta-sept ]
Brand names: Orencia, Orencia ClickJect, Orencia Prefilled Syringe
Dosage forms: intravenous powder for injection (250 mg); subcutaneous solution (125 mg/mL; 50 mg/0.4 mL; 87.5 mg/0.7 mL)
Drug classes:Antirheumatics, Selective immunosuppressants
What is abatacept?
Abatacept is used to treat symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, and to prevent joint damage caused by these conditions. abatacept is for adults and children at least 2 years old.
Abatacept is also used to treat active psoriatic arthritis in adults.
Abatacept is not a cure for any autoimmune disorder and will only treat the symptoms of your condition.
Abatacept may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use abatacept if you are allergic to it.
Before using abatacept, tell your doctor if you have ever had tuberculosis, if anyone in your household has tuberculosis, or if you have recently traveled to an area where tuberculosis is common.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
a weak immune system;
any type of infection including a skin infection or open sores;
infections that go away and come back;
diabetes;
hepatitis; or
if you are scheduled to receive any vaccines.
Using abatacept may increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer such as lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes). This risk may be greater in older adults. Talk to your doctor about your specific risk.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of abatacept on the baby.
Children using abatacept should be current on all childhood immunizations before starting treatment.
How should I use abatacept?
Before you start treatment with abatacept, your doctor may perform tests to make sure you do not have tuberculosis or other infecti...
