Anifrolumab is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate to severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is a type of medicine called an interleukin-1 receptor antagonist. Anifrolumab works by blocking certain signals in the body that are involved in the abnormal immune response seen in SLE. It is injected into a vein (IV) once every four weeks.
Anifrolumab, sold under the brand name Saphnelo, is a medication used for the treatment of moderate to severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in adults. It is a fully human monoclonal antibody that blocks the activity of type I interferons, which are cytokines involved in regulating the inflammatory pathways implicated in SLE.
Anifrolumab is administered by intravenous infusion every four weeks. It is the first new medication approved for the treatment of SLE in over a decade.
Here are some additional details about Anifrolumab:
- Mechanism of action: Anifrolumab binds to the type I interferon receptor, preventing type I interferons from binding to the receptor and signaling to cells. This reduces inflammation in the body.
- Side effects: Common side effects of Anifrolumab include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, fatigue, and nausea.