Infliximab

Definition

Infliximab is a monoclonal antibody used as an immunosuppressant to treat various inflammatory diseases. It works by inhibiting tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a substance in the body that causes inflammation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Infliximab is commonly used to treat autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriatic arthritis.
2. It is administered via intravenous infusion, usually in a clinical setting.
3. Common side effects include infusion reactions, increased risk of infection, and potential development of antibodies against the drug.
4. Patients receiving infliximab should be monitored for signs of infections and other adverse effects regularly.
5. The drug can also be used off-label for conditions like ankylosing spondylitis and ulcerative colitis.

Review Questions

• What inflammatory diseases are commonly treated with infliximab?
• How is infliximab administered to patients?
• What are the common side effects associated with infliximab?

Related terms

Immunosuppressants:

Drugs that reduce the strength of the body's immune system.

Biologics:

Medicinal products created using biological processes, often involving biotechnology.

Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α): A cell signaling protein involved in systemic inflammation and targeted by certain immunosuppressants like infliximab.