Products
Golimumab is commercially available as a solution for injection (Simponi). It was approved in many countries in 2010.
Structure and properties
Golimumab (Mr = 150 kDa) is a human IgG1κ-monoclonal antibody.
Effects
Golimumab (ATC L04AB06) has selective immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. The effects are based on binding to the soluble and membrane-bound proinflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha and inhibition of interaction with its receptors. The half-life is approximately 2 weeks. TNF-alpha plays an important role in various autoimmune diseases.
Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Ulcerative colitis (not approved in all countries).
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drug is administered subcutaneously once a month on the same day.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Active tuberculosis
- Other serious infectious diseases
- Heart failure
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
No other biologics or live vaccines should be administered during treatment.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include infectious disease and injection site reactions. Numerous other side effects are possible. The drug may rarely cause serious infections and malignancies.
