For patients
IL-6 inhibitors
tocilizumab, sarilumab, anti-IL-6
Are you a clinician? See the clinical version of this page.
The short versionIL-6 inhibitors may be continued in pregnancy if they are needed to control your disease, based on a shared decision, since the data are still limited. Tocilizumab is considered compatible with breastfeeding.
- The decision balances disease control against limited pregnancy data.
Through your pregnancy journey
Use if needed
Before pregnancy
May be continued if needed for disease control; discuss with your team.
Use if needed
First trimester
Used if needed for disease control.
Use if needed
Second & third trimester
Used if needed for disease control.
Continue
Breastfeeding
Tocilizumab is considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Use if needed
For fathers-to-be
Considered compatible for fathers-to-be for tocilizumab; sarilumab data are more limited.
iThis page helps you prepare a conversation with your care team. It does not replace individual medical advice. Always confirm your own plan with your rheumatology and pregnancy team.
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When to call your team
- Do not stop or start these medicines without your team.
- Tell your baby's team which biologics you took in pregnancy.