Immuno-modulators (Anti-TNF agents)

Question 1

Examples of drug (Anti-TNF agents)

Answer 1

• Etanercept – receptor fusion protein
• Infliximab – monoclonal antibody
• Adalimumab – monoclonal antibody

Question 2

Mechanism of action (Anti-TNF agents)

Answer 2

• Anti-TNF-α and anti-TNF-β
• Blocks its interactions with TNF cell receptors
• TNF α and β produced from macrophages and T cells
• Stimulates cytokine – IL1, IL8, IL6
• Reduces inflammation

Question 3

Indications (Anti-TNF agents)

Answer 3

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Juvenile arthritis

Question 4

Side effects (Anti-TNF agents)

Answer 4

• Injection site reactions
• Flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, runny nose)
• Immune deficiency – in particular risk of legionella and listeria infection and reactivation of tuberculosis

Question 5

Important pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamcis (Anti-TNF agents)

Answer 5

• Given parenterally (subcutaneous injection).

Question 6

Patient information (Anti-TNF agents)

Answer 6

• Maintain good hygiene and report symptoms of infection early.