WASHINGTON, July 25 (Reuters) - Roche Holding AG's <ROG.VX> drug Actemra appears to be effective for treating rheumatoid arthritis, U.S. drug reviewers said in a summary released on Friday.

Regarding safety, the Food and Drug Administration staff said liver enzyme abnormalities were relatively common, with most cases being mild to moderate. Effects on liver enzymes and blood fats known as lipids were not associated with health problems in the controlled setting of clinical trials, the summary said.

The FDA staff said they would ask an advisory panel that meets Tuesday whether Actemra's benefits outweigh known and potential risks and whether the drug should be approved. Roche bills the drug as a potential blockbuster. (Reporting by Lisa Richwine, editing by Gerald E. McCormick)

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