​Pharmacology - Infliximab

​Pharmacology - Infliximab
Helps reduce inflammation in the joints as well as the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Crohn's disease symptoms are alleviated as a result.

Mode of Action 
It is a monoclonal antibody that is directed against TNF-, and it binds to TNF-, thereby preventing it from interacting with cell surface receptors in inflammatory cells.
A four-weekly intravenous infusion is administered. 9–12 days is the half-life.

Use in Clinical Settings 
Treatment for active rheumatoid arthritis typically involves the use of methotrexate in cases when other DMARDs have been unsuccessful. If alternative treatments have not been successful, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis may be considered.

Adverse Effects 
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headache, and upper respiratory tract infections alongside coughing. There is a possibility that latent tuberculosis and other illnesses, such as hepatitis B, could become active again if macrophages are rendered inactive. Dyscrasias of the blood can take place. The production of antibodies against iniximab is a possibility.

Similar Drugs 
adalimumab an anti-TNF-alpha antibody, but its half-life ranges from 10 to 20 days, and MTX works to limit clearance.
The anti-TNF-alpha antibody Etanercept is administered subcutaneously twice a week, with a half-life of around five days.