Monoclonal Antibodiea For GI Conditions

Question 1

What is their general mechanism of action?
And their use

Answer 1

Blocks or target abnormal genes or proteins

Usually used to reduce flare ups for tx of exacerbation of inflammatory GI disease

Question 2

What are the two prototype meds for monoclonal antibodies?

Answer 2

• infliximab (remicade)
• Adalimumab (humira)

Question 3

What are some indications GI related for the monoclonal antibodies?

Answer 3

• Crohn’s disease
• ulcerative colitis

Question 4

What are some AE related to adalimumab and infliximab?
And the AE specific to one another

Answer 4

Common AE:
- flu like symptoms (headache, fever, chills)
- upper and lower resp. Tract infections

Adalimumab:
- localized inflammation reaction at injection site

Infliximab:
- GI discomfort
- dyspnea

Question 5

What are some contraindications to the monoclonal antibodies ?

Answer 5

• KDA
• severe HF
• cases of TB or fungal infections
• live vaccines
• pregnancy (during and up to 2 yrs after tx)

Question 6

What are some drug interactions with the monoclonal antibodies?

Answer 6

• increase risk of serious infection due to neutropenia with : other antirheumatic drugs

Question 7

What is an important test to be done before starting monoclonal antibodie therapy?

Answer 7

Tb test (as it can reactivate it)

Question 8

Which of the two prototype medication can be given IV for moderate to severe?

Answer 8

Infliximab (Remicade)

Question 9

Which of the two monoclonal antibody will be given SC for moderate to severe?

Answer 9

Adalimumab (humira)

Question 10

What should be taught to the pt to report if they experience it to the HCP?
And how should it be taken?

Answer 10

Teach to report any:
- excessive fatigue
- any edema
- loss of appetite

Encourage pt to drink 2-3L per day