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There may be other drugs that can affect abatacept. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Some people receiving an abatacept injection have had a reaction to the infusion (within 1 hour of when the medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, itchy, light-headed, or numb, or if you have a severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, chest tightness, or trouble breathing.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;

• night sweats, weight loss;

• a wound that won't heal;

• burning or pain when you urinate;

• wheezing, cough, or other breathing problems;

• skin rash, itching, or flushing (redness or warmth under your skin); or

• feeling like you might pass out.

Less serious side effects may include:

• headache;

• runny or stuffy nose, sore throat;

• nausea; or

• dizziness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.