Information for families reviewed with pediatric rheumatologist across Canada.
If your child takes tocilizumab (Actemra) or a version of it, like Tyenne or Avtozma, you may be hearing about changes. Here’s what we know as of October 15, 2026.
What’s happening
Tyenne is in short supply, and how much that affects families differs by province. Avtozma is available, and more is on the way in November and December. There are options, and your child’s care team will work out the right one for your child.
What to do
- Not sure which product your child is on? Check your pharmacy label, ask your pharmacist, or ask your team.
- If your pharmacy tells you there’s a problem, call your rheumatology team right away.
- If you’re asked to pay much more than usual, check with your team first. Help may be available.
- If your child is under 12, talk to your team before changing products or devices. Some options aren’t approved for this age group.
- Continue to take your child’s medication as directed. Please don’t skip or stretch doses while this is sorted out.
What to expect
Teams are working as best they can. Each change can mean new coverage forms, so replies may take a little time.
What Cassie + Friends is doing
Cassie + Friends is Canada’s national charity for children and families affected by Juvenile Arthritis and all childhood rheumatic diseases. When situations like this arise, we strive to make sure you hear about it clearly and early. We also make sure that the people making decisions hear what they mean for kids. When drug supply changes, children’s needs, like dose sizes and formats, are rarely part of the decision. That’s a gap in the system, and we’re working with national partners and pushing for it to be fixed. We’ll keep tracking this with our Medical Advisory Committee and update you as we learn more.
Tell us what’s happening for you
We want to hear from you too. It takes two minutes to tell us what you’re experiencing and helps us show decision-makers what this looks like for families.
Tell us what your family is experiencing
Sincerely,
Jennifer Wilson
Executive Director
