Antibodies (cytokine modulators)
Examples
Infliximab
Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Psoriasis
Contraindications
Contraindications
- Severe infection
- Pregnancy and breast feeding
Caution
- Ongoing infection e.g. TB (can be used where TB treatment established)
- Heart failure
- Multiple sclerosis
- Previous malignancy
Mechanism
Infliximab is a monoclonal antibody which binds to TNFα and inhibits it. Similar biologic therapies have been developed to other targets.
Administration
Intravenous infusion
Adverse Reactions
- Infusion reaction - fever, pruritis, urticaria.
- Infection
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Neutropenia, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, anaemia.
Interactions
Avoid live vaccines in combination with infliximab.
Education
Patients should be warned about potential side effects and to watch out for the development of infection.
Pharmacokinetics
Nil relevant.
Other Systems
