Anti-TNF alpha: new therapy for Crohn's disease.
Immunological technology has paved the way for a promising new therapy for patients suffering from chronic active Crohn's disease. Neutralization of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF alpha), a cytokine secreted by cells in the immune system, may prove useful in decreasing bowel inflammation and aid in the closure of fistulae. Two multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trials were conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of inflixmab (Remicade [Centocor]), a chimeric monoclonal antibody form of anti-TNF alpha, hypothesized to provide a prolonged therapeutic effect in chronic inflammation. The 5 mg/kg dose regimen of infliximab was the lowest effective dose and produced a high degree of benefit lasting 8 weeks to 3 months. Infusion preparation, cost, and patient indications bear special considerations. Further investigation is needed in long-term safety and efficacy for chronic administration of infliximab.
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Specialty Care Systems, Inc., Park Ridge, Illinois 60068, USA.
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000276:immunology / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003424:Crohn Disease / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*; D016903:Drug Monitoring / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing; D005765:Gastrointestinal Agents / Q000276:immunology / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D000069285:Infliximab; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / Q000276:immunology*
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D005765:Gastrointestinal Agents; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; D000069285:Infliximab