Canakinumab

Canakinumab (ACZ885, Ilaris) is a human anti-IL-1 beta monoclonal antibody developed by Novartis. Its mode of action is based on the neutralization of IL-1 beta signaling, resulting in suppression of inflammation in patients with disorders of autoimmune origin. In June 2009 the drug was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of familial cold auto-inflammatory syndrome and Muckle-Wells syndrome, which are inflammatory diseases related to cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes. The drug is currently being evaluated for its potential in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic-onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, type 1 and 2 diabetes and ocular diseases. Reports from clinical trials suggest that canakinumab is well-tolerated in most patients, and no serious adverse effects have been reported. The drug provides significant advantages over existing competitive therapies, including bimonthly administration and approved use in children.