Products
Infliximab is commercially available as a powder for a concentrate for the preparation of an infusion solution (Remicade, biosimilars: Remsima, Inflectra). It has been approved in many countries since 1999. Biosimilars were released in 2015.
Structure and properties
Infliximab is a chimeric human murine IgG1κ monoclonal antibody with a molecular mass of 149.1 kDa that binds to human tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). Infliximab is produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Infliximab (ATC L04AA12) has selective immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. The effects are due to binding of the antibody to the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha with high affinity. Infliximab has a long half-life of approximately 8 to 9 days.
Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Bechterew’s disease / Ankylosing spondylitis
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Plaque psoriasis
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Tuberculosis or other serious infectious diseases
- Moderate or severe heart failure
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Infliximab should not be combined with other biologics intended for the same indication.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include infectious diseases, infusion reactions, headache, and abdominal pain. The drug may rarely promote the development of serious infections and malignancies.
