Off-label uses of biologics in dermatology: interferon and intravenous immunoglobulin (part 1 of 2).
The introduction of a number of biologic therapies into the market has revolutionized the practice of dermatology. These therapies include interferons, intravenous immunoglobulin, infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept, efalizumab, alefacept, and rituximab. Most dermatologists are familiar with the Food and Drug Administration-approved indications of these medications. However, numerous off-label uses have evolved. As part 1 of a 2-part series, this article will review the literature regarding the off-label uses of the interferons and intravenous immunoglobulin in dermatology.
Smith
David I
DI
Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Swamy
Pooja M
PM
Heffernan
Michael P
MP
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D017277:Drug Approval; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007116:Immunization, Passive; D016756:Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007223:Infant; D007372:Interferons / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D012874:Skin Diseases, Infectious / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration
D016756:Immunoglobulins, Intravenous; D007155:Immunologic Factors; D007372:Interferons