Medication Review: What Is the Safety Profile of Sarilumab in PMR & RA?

September 2025

In this expert-led video, Heather Mambretti, PA-C, who has over 13 years of experience in rheumatology, reviews the safety profile of sarilumab for patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Heather explains how more than 10 years of cumulative safety data—including 7 years from RA clinical trials and 3 years from PMR studies—provides reassurance for patients and clinicians considering sarilumab therapy. She highlights important safety considerations such as screening for infections and tuberculosis prior to initiation, managing treatment interruptions in the event of serious infections, and monitoring for adverse events like neutropenia, leukopenia, rash, fatigue, myalgia, constipation, and injection site reactions. Heather also compares the risks of sarilumab to the long-term risks of high-dose corticosteroids, helping patients understand the benefit-risk balance in real-world practice. Viewers will learn about recommended safety monitoring protocols, including early lab checks (CBC, metabolic panel, lipid profile) and ongoing annual tuberculosis screening. This video provides practical, evidence-based guidance for healthcare providers and patients navigating treatment decisions in PMR and RA.