Anakinra (E. coli) Solution for injection

What is this medicine?

ANAKINRA (an a KIN ra) is used to treat active rheumatoid arthritis in adults.

How should I use this medicine?

The medicine is for injection under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• fever, chills or any other sign of infection

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• headache

• nausea

• redness, bruising, itching, stinging, or swelling at site where injected

• stomach pain

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• adalimumab

• etanercept

• infliximab

• rilonacept

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• some vaccines

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of reach of children.

Store syringes in the refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Do not freeze or shake. Protect from light. Do not use the medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• asthma

• infection

• kidney disease

• taking adalimumab, etanercept, or infliximab

• an unusual or allergic reaction to anakinra, latex, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need blood tests done while you take this medicine.

If you get a cold or other infection while receiving this medicine, call your doctor or health care professional. Do not treat yourself. The medicine may decrease your body's ability to get rid of infections.