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Orencia (abatacept)
Supplied: An intravenous infusion given by a health- care professional once a month, either at home or in an infusion clinic
What types of arthritis is abatacept used for?
Abatacept is a biologic used to treat inflammatory types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis.
What is the typical dose and when do I take it?
Abatacept is given by an intravenous infusion every month. The dose given is dependant on your body weight but typical doses range from 500 to 1000 mg.
How long will it take to work?
Most people begin to feel the effects of abatacept within a few weeks; however, it may take months to feel the full effect. Some people respond a little slower taking up to 6 months until the maximum benefit is felt.
When should I call my doctor?
| Concern | Action | ||
| Fever | See your doctor. | ||
| Think you have an infection | See your doctor. | ||
| Prescribed an antibiotic | See your doctor. | ||
| Become pregnant | See your doctor. | ||
| Scheduled for surgery | Notify your doctor of the surgery date. | ||
Is there anybody who should not take abatacept?
Abatacept is known to increase the risk of infection. People with active infections should not take abatacept. People who have had frequent infections in the past or a history of an infection called tuberculosis should discuss the use of abatacept with their doctor.
Any woman who is pregnant should not take abatacept, as it has not been studied in pregnant women. Women taking abatacept should use birth control like the oral contraceptive pill. Any woman who is breastfeeding should also avoid abatacept.
Anyone with a history of cancer or emphysema should discuss the use of abatacept with their doctor.
You should discuss all vaccinations with your doctor and notify your doctor of any scheduled surgeries.
What are the side effects of abatacept?
| Concern | Frequency | Call Doctor |
| Infusion reaction | Rare | Monitored during the infusion |
| Nausea & diarrhea | Rare | If severe |
| Headaches & dizziness | Rare | If severe |
| Back pain or aching in the joints | Rare | If severe |
| Rash or flushing | Rare | If severe |
| Infection (fever/chills, urinary tract infection, etc) | Rare | Yes, always |
| Emphysema (COPD): May increase the risk of exacerbations and pneumonia in patients with emphysema/chronic bronchitis | Rare | Monitored by your doctor |
| Cancer: Abatacept may be associated with a small increased risk of developing certain types of cancer | Very rare | Monitored by your doctor |
Do I need any monitoring while taking abatacept?
Blood tests are not routinely required while you are taking abatacept. However, your doctor will likely order periodic blood tests to check your blood counts andfollow the activity of your arthritis.
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This page was last reviewed/updated on : 06/14/2010