Anakinra

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist(see also CD121a). Recombinant variant of the endogenous interleukin-1 receptor antagonist(IL-1Ra) obtained by genetic engineering from E. coli.

Anakinra causes a shift in the balance of endogenous IL-1 antagonists and IL-1 receptors, which is disturbed in inflammatory diseases, in favour of endogenous IL-1 antagonists.

IL-1 physiologically binds to the membrane-bound IL-1 receptor type 1, which then forms a heterodimeric complex with the accessory protein IL-1RacP. This complex triggers an intracellular signalling cascade during inflammation. In case of excess of IL-1 antagonists by application of anakinra, the inflammation cascade is inhibited.

Thus, Anakinra inhibits the recruitment of neutrophil granulocytes in joints mediated by interleukin-1, the activation of macrophages and the differentiation of T and B lymphocytes. Secondarily, this reduces the destruction of bone and cartilage as well as swelling and intra-articular pain.

Very frequent: headache, reactions at the injection site ( erythema, local oedema). This seems to be caused by a vehicle-associated effect such as a low pH or the citrate buffer itself.

Common: neutropenia, bacterial infections.

Kineret®

Remember! Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment (insufficient data available!)

1. Bresnihan B (2002) Anakinra as a new therapeutic option in rheumatoid arthritis: clinical results and perspectives. Clin Exp Rheumatol 20: S32-34
2. Calabrese LH (2002) Anakinra treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Pharmacother 36: 1204-1209
3. Hawkins PN et al (2004) Spectrum of clinical features in Muckle-Wells syndrome and response to anakinra. Arthritis Rheum 50: 607-612