Products
Obiltoxaximab was approved in the United States in 2016 as an infusion product (Anthim). It has not yet been registered in many countries. Obiltoxaximab was developed with funding from national organizations and is intended primarily for the treatment of victims of a terrorist attack with anthrax spores (Strategic National Stockpile).
Structure and properties
Obiltoxaximab is a chimeric IgG1κ monoclonal antibody with a molecular weight of 148 kDa.
Effects
Obiltoxaximab binds to a component of anthrax toxin called protective antigen (PA). As a result, the antibody prevents access of two toxic proteins to the interior of the cell and protects the tissue.
Indications
For treatment of pulmonary anthrax with the bacterium , in combination with antibiotics. Obiltoxaximab may also be used as a second-line agent for prevention if alternative therapies are not suitable or available.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion. Patients are pretreated with diphenhydramine.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
The pharmacokinetics of ciprofloxacin are not affected by obiltoxaximab.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects in healthy subjects include headache, pruritus, respiratory tract infection, cough, local injection site reactions, nasal congestion, and urticaria. Obiltoxaximab can cause hypersensitivity reactions and anaphylaxis.