Tocilizumab and Stiffness: What Users Say

• kel...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• March 28, 2013

For Rheumatoid Arthritis "I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2008. I was put on methotrexate almost immediately. My first stab at a TNF inhibitor went well for about a year. Then, there were a couple of tries with different meds (including the dreaded prednisone for flares). My PA thought that we could 'do better'... so, I researched and she researched... together, we came up with Actemra. The stiffness in the morning is GONE! I haven't flared in over a year! I'm SO lucky to have found Actemra. The only thing that kind of bugs me is that the week before my next infusion is due, I get a little stiff and more tired than usual."

• Ano...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 7, 2025

For Giant Cell Arteritis "I started on high doses of prednisone, 100 mg, after going half blind in my left eye on 6/24! Weaned down to 60 mg and started on Actemra on 9/24! Weaned off prednisone in 6 mos. on 2/25! Now, after 6 mos. of Actemra, having swelling in my ankles and feet with weakness and stiffness! My experience so far is terrible!"

• Ano...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 7, 2025

For Giant Cell Arteritis "I started on high doses of prednisone, 100 mg, after going half blind in my left eye on 6/24! Weaned down to 60 mg and started on Actemra on 9/24! Weaned off prednisone in 6 months on 2/25! Now, after 6 months of Actemra, having swelling in my ankles and feet with weakness and stiffness! My experience so far is terrible!"