infliksimabin

Infliksimabin, commonly known as infliximab, is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that targets tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). It binds both soluble and transmembrane TNF-α, helping to reduce inflammatory signaling and promoting depletion of TNF-α–expressing cells. This mechanism makes it effective in several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

Approved indications include moderate to severe Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as rheumatoid arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis (including ankylosing spondylitis), psoriatic arthritis, and plaque psoriasis. It is used when conventional therapies have failed or are not tolerated, and is also employed in some pediatric populations with certain conditions.

Administration is by intravenous infusion in a clinical setting. Dosing typically follows an induction schedule (for example at weeks 0, 2, and 6) followed by maintenance infusions every 6–8 weeks, with adjustments based on weight and therapeutic response. Premedication may be used to minimize infusion-related reactions. Because of variability across indications, specific dosing regimens are determined by the treating physician.

Safety considerations are centered on infection risk and immunogenicity. TNF-α blockade increases the risk of serious infections and reactivation of latent tuberculosis and hepatitis B. Infusion reactions can occur, and anti-drug antibodies may reduce efficacy; combining infliximab with methotrexate can decrease antibody formation. Contraindications include active serious infections; caution is advised in patients with congestive heart failure. Live vaccines are generally avoided during treatment.

Biosimilars of infliximab are available, expanding access to therapy. The original product was developed by Janssen Biotech and received approval in the late 1990s.