Description
What is Orencia?
Orencia is a selective co-stimulation modulator that is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severely active rheumatoid arthritis in adults, moderate to severely active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in patients aged two and older, and psoriatic arthritis in adults. Its active ingredient, abatacept, is a fusion protein designed to stop T-cell activation, thereby preventing its immune activity. Activated T-cells are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis.
Orencia can be administered via subcutaneous injection or through intravenous infusion. For intravenous infusion, the medicine is supplied as a 250mg lyophilized powder in a single-use vial for reconstitution and dilution before infusion. Administration of Orencia via intravenous injection should be performed by a healthcare provider. For subcutaneous injection, Orencia is supplied in a prefilled syringe or in a prefilled pen.
What is Orencia used for?
Orencia is used in the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and adult psoriatic arthritis. When treating rheumatoid arthritis, Orencia should be used with methotrexate. It is not recommended that abatacept be used with TNF-blockers.
