In February 2009, due to serious side effects, a selective (!) humanized IgG1 antibody with binding sites for the CD 11α chain of LFA-1 (Leucocyte Function Associated Antigen 1; see integrins below) on the surface of T cells was withdrawn from the market. This prevents T cells from binding to ICAM1 and other ICAMs (see adhesion molecules below) on endothelial surfaces. The T cells can no longer migrate from the vessels into the tissue, dermis and epidermis. The release of pro-inflammatory cytokines is also prevented.
Efalizumab
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Undesirable effectsThis section has been translated automatically.
In several patients, long-term therapy (> 3 years) with efalizumab resulted in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML = rare progressive demyelinating disease caused by activation of the polyomavirus JC, which is present in latent form in 80% of healthy adults). The product has been withdrawn from the market because of this side effect!
Other side effects include Guillain-Barreé syndrome, Miller-Fisher syndrome, encephalitis, meningitis and opportunistic infections.
PreparationsThis section has been translated automatically.
Raptiva (taken off the market because of the serious side effects!)
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Kolde G et al. (2007) Successful treatment of the alopecia areata with Efalizumab. JDDG 9: 834
- Farewell M et al (2003) A novel target T-cell modulator, Efalizumab, for plaque psoriasis. N Engl J Med 349: 2004-2013
- Merckserono (2009) Important announcement. Drug safety. germany @merckserono.net February 2009
- Tutrone WD et al (2001) Biologic therapy for psoriasis: a brief history, II Cutis 68: 367-372
- Weinberg JM et al (2002) Biologic therapy for psoriasis--the first wave: infliximab, etanercept, efalizumab, and alefacept. J Drugs Dermatol 1: 303-310
- Weinberg JM, Tutrone WD (2003) Biologic therapy for psoriasis: the T-cell-targeted therapies efalizumab and alefacept. Cutis 71: 41-45