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Anakinra ๐
Anakinra is a recombinant interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra). It is used to reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, Stillโs disease, and rare autoinflammatory conditions. By blocking IL-1โmediated pathways, it slows disease progression, reduces joint damage, and alleviates systemic inflammation. Always check the BNF link here for the latest prescribing advice.
โ๏ธ Mechanism of Action
- Competitive antagonist at the IL-1 receptor, blocking IL-1ฮฑ and IL-1ฮฒ signalling.
- Inhibits downstream cytokine cascades โ โ neutrophil recruitment, โ synovial inflammation.
- Clinically improves pain, swelling, and prevents radiographic progression of joint disease.
๐ Dose Range (Confirm with BNF or product SPC)
| Indication | Details |
|---|---|
| ๐ฆด Rheumatoid Arthritis |
Anakinra
โข 100 mg SC injection OD |
| ๐ง Stillโs Disease (incl. systemic JIA & AOSD) |
Anakinra
โข Adults: 100 mg SC injection OD โข Children: Weight-based dosing |
| ๐ฅ Other Autoinflammatory Syndromes (e.g. CAPS, FMF) |
Anakinra
โข Variable specialist dosing โข Usually OD, may โ to BD in severe disease |
โ ๏ธ Cautions & Contraindications
- Active or recurrent infections (risk of sepsis).
- Neutropenia - check baseline and monitor regularly; avoid if neutrophils very low.
- Asthma - higher risk of hypersensitivity reactions.
- Renal impairment - mainly renally excreted; accumulation possible if eGFR < 30 mL/min.
- Avoid use with TNF-ฮฑ inhibitors (markedly โ infection risk).
- Screen for latent TB and hepatitis before initiation.
๐งช Monitoring
- Baseline and regular FBC (esp. neutrophils, platelets).
- Renal function (adjust dose if severe impairment).
- Monitor for infection symptoms throughout therapy.
โ ๏ธ Side Effects
- Very common: injection site reactions (pain, erythema, swelling).
- Headache, nausea, diarrhoea.
- Infections: URTIs, cellulitis, pneumonia.
- Haematological: neutropenia, thrombocytopenia.
- Rare: hypersensitivity, anaphylaxis, liver enzyme elevation.
๐ References
- BNF: Anakinra
- MHRA / EMA Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC)
| The content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only to support exam preparation (e.g., MLA, MRCP, USMLE) and learning. This is NOT medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional guidance. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, official guidelines (e.g., NICE, GMC, BNF), or supervised clinical practice. Always verify information with current, authoritative sources. Makindo and its contributors accept no liability for any reliance on this content, including errors, omissions, or any resulting harm, loss, or consequences. By using this site, you agree to these terms. |
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