simvastatin + tocilizumab

This is a combination of simvastatin (a statin medication) and tocilizumab (an interleukin-6 receptor antagonist). Studies have shown a significant drug interaction between these medications. Tocilizumab can reverse interleukin-6 (IL-6) induced suppression of CYP3A4 activity. In rheumatoid arthritis patients, exposure to simvastatin was significantly reduced at 1 and 5 weeks after tocilizumab infusion. The mean effect ratio for simvastatin AUC was 43% at 1 week and 61% at 5 weeks after tocilizumab infusion compared to baseline. This interaction suggests caution should be exercised when starting tocilizumab in rheumatoid arthritis patients who are taking simvastatin.

Brand names

Zocor + ActemraZocor + RoActemra