Anakinra
Drug Name(s): Kineret
Class: Biologics
Type: IL-1 receptor
Used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
Dosage
Form(s): prefilled syringe
100 mg by injection once a day for adults with RA
Dosages for children: Dosages for children can vary. Ask your doctor about the appropriate dosage for your child.
Special Instructions
Keep pens refrigerated. Do not freeze. Inject into thigh, abdomen or upper arm. Rotate injection sites. Do not inject where skin is tender, bruised, red or hard.
Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment.
Potential Side Effects
Abdominal pain; bruising, pain or redness at the injection site; diarrhea; flu-like symptoms; headache; joint pain; low white blood cell count; nausea; sinusitis; upper respiratory infection
Be Aware
Like all biologics, this drug suppresses the immune system and may increase your risk of infections. Tell your doctor if you have an active infection. Do not start treatment if you have a serious or recurrent infection (such as pneumonia). You should be tested for tuberculosis before starting this medication. Do not get a live vaccine when taking biologics.
Use of this drug in combination with anti-TNF agents is not recommended.
