Anti-interleukin-6

Anti-interleukin-6 (also known as Anti-IL-6) is a type of biological therapy that targets and inhibits the interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory cytokine. This therapy is used in the treatment of various autoimmune diseases and cancers.

Mechanism of Action

Anti-IL-6 therapy works by binding to the IL-6 receptor, thereby blocking the interaction between IL-6 and its receptor. This prevents the activation of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, which is responsible for the production of inflammatory mediators.

Clinical Uses

Anti-IL-6 therapy is used in the treatment of several diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Castleman's disease. It is also being investigated for use in the treatment of COVID-19, due to its potential to reduce the cytokine storm that is associated with severe cases of the disease.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Anti-IL-6 therapy include infections, nausea, headache, and fatigue. More serious side effects can include liver damage, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia.

Examples

Examples of Anti-IL-6 drugs include tocilizumab, siltuximab, and sarilumab.

See Also

• Interleukin-6
• Biological therapy
• Cytokine storm
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Castleman's disease