Orencia

Orencia (also known as Abatacept) is a biopharmaceutical drug used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It is a selective T cell costimulation modulator that works by inhibiting the activation of T cells, which play a key role in the body's immune response.

History

Orencia was developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb and was approved by the FDA in the United States in 2005 for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. It was later approved for the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in 2008.

Mechanism of Action

Orencia works by binding to the CD80 and CD86 proteins on the surface of antigen-presenting cells, thereby blocking the interaction with CD28 on T cells. This prevents the activation of T cells, reducing the body's immune response and the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Usage

Orencia is used in the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children aged six years and older. It is typically used when other treatments, such as methotrexate, have not been effective.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Orencia include headache, nausea, and infections. Serious side effects can include severe infections, allergic reactions, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

See Also

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
• Biopharmaceutical
• T cell
• Bristol-Myers Squibb
• Food and Drug Administration