TNFinhibitorok

TNFinhibitorok, or TNF inhibitors, are a class of biologic medicines that block tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in many chronic inflammatory disorders. They work by binding TNF itself or by acting as decoy receptors, thereby reducing inflammatory signaling and downstream mediators.

The class includes two main types: monoclonal antibodies that bind TNF (such as infliximab, adalimumab, golimumab, certolizumab pegol) and fusion proteins that trap TNF (etanercept). They are usually administered by subcutaneous injection (adalimumab, etanercept, certolizumab pegol, golimumab) or by intravenous infusion (infliximab, with some golimumab regimens). Biosimilars of some agents are available in many regions. TNF inhibitors are approved for a range of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, plaque psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, non-infectious uveitis, and certain juvenile idiopathic arthritis conditions. Dosing and schedules vary by drug and indication.

Efficacy and safety considerations are central to their use. Many patients experience improvement in joint symptoms, skin lesions, or intestinal inflammation, but not all respond, and some lose response over time. Risks include increased susceptibility to infections, notably reactivation of latent tuberculosis and hepatitis B; screening and vaccination before initiation are important. Other potential adverse effects include demyelinating disorders, new or worsening heart failure, lupus-like syndromes, and rarely malignancies with long-term use. Monitoring typically involves infection surveillance, baseline and ongoing lab tests, and assessment of clinical response; therapy may be adjusted or switched if response is inadequate. In pregnancy, some TNF inhibitors are used with medical guidance, as data vary by drug.