Briakinumab is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. It is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking the action of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a protein which plays an important role in inflammation. Briakinumab is administered by subcutaneous injection. Common side effects include upper respiratory tract infections, injection site reactions, and headache.
Briakinumab, also known as ABT-874, is a human monoclonal antibody currently being investigated for the treatment of various autoimmune diseases. It targets and neutralizes specific molecules involved in the immune system's inflammatory response.
Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:
What it targets:
- Briakinumab targets two specific interleukin molecules:
- Interleukin-12 (IL-12): This molecule plays a role in initiating and regulating immune responses, particularly involving T cells.
- Interleukin-23 (IL-23): This molecule contributes to the development and maintenance of certain immune cells involved in inflammation, particularly Th17 cells.
Potential uses:
- Briakinumab is primarily being investigated for the treatment of T-cell-mediated autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. These include:
- Crohn's disease: An inflammatory bowel disease affecting the digestive tract.
- Multiple sclerosis: A disease affecting the central nervous system, causing neurological symptoms.
- Psoriasis: A chronic skin condition characterized by scaly patches and inflammation.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease causing inflammation and pain in the joints.
It is important to note that:
- Briakinumab is still under investigation and not yet approved for any medical use.
- Clinical trials are ongoing to assess its safety, efficacy, and optimal dosage for different conditions.
- The development of briakinumab for psoriasis treatment has been discontinued in the United States and Europe due to reasons other than safety concerns.