Purpose: The efficacy and safety of treatment with tocilizumab (TCZ) were evaluated in our institution.
Methods: A total of 28 patients who started TCZ therapy for at least 24 weeks were evaluated.
Results: Nineteen patients had received at least one biological agent before TCZ therapy. Five patients received monotherapy. Mean DAS28 (ESR) scores were 5.9 at baseline and 2.54 at 24 weeks. Rates of good EULAR response and remission (DAS28 (ESR) of ＜2.6) were 75％, and 60.7％ at weeks 24, respectively. The treatment continuation rate was 100％. A total of 33 adverse events occurred in 21 patients. Analysis of patients by factors possibly affecting remission revealed no significant differences by patient characteristics.
Discussion: We conclude that TCZ is a beneficial drug in daily clinical practice.