How is tocilizumab used in Giant Cell Arteritis?
The role of tocilizumab in routine practice is actively evolving. Many experts use tocilizumab (162 mg subcutaneous weekly) as part of the initial therapy along with glucocorticoid in order to more rapidly taper the prednisone. Others reserve its use for patients with refractory or recurrent disease or significant glucocorticoid side effects. After tapering of glucocorticoids, tocilizumab may be used alone to maintain remission. Twice, monthly subcutaneous dosing and monthly intravenous dosing (8 mg/kg) may be considered, although the trials and FDA-approval is for the weekly subcutaneous regimen.
