Zenapax

Zenapax (also known as Daclizumab) is a therapeutic monoclonal antibody. It was originally marketed by Roche, but has since been discontinued. Zenapax was used in the prevention of acute organ rejection in patients receiving renal transplants. It functions by binding to the alpha subunit of the interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R), which inhibits IL-2-mediated activation of lymphocytes, a critical pathway in the immune response to allografts.

History

Zenapax was approved by the FDA in 1997 for the prevention of acute organ rejection in patients receiving renal transplants. It was subsequently withdrawn from the market by Roche in 2009 due to low demand.

Mechanism of Action

Zenapax functions by binding to the alpha subunit of the interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R) on the surface of T cells. This binding inhibits the binding of IL-2, a cytokine that stimulates the growth and differentiation of T cell response. By inhibiting this pathway, Zenapax reduces acute organ rejection by the immune system.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Zenapax include fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and headache. Serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions, infections, and an increased risk of malignancy due to immunosuppression.

Discontinuation

In 2009, Roche announced the discontinuation of Zenapax due to low demand. However, a biosimilar version of the drug, known as Zinbryta, was approved by the FDA in 2016 for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Zinbryta was voluntarily withdrawn from the global market in 2018 due to concerns about the drug's safety profile.

See Also

• Monoclonal antibodies
• Organ transplantation
• Interleukin-2 receptor
• Biosimilar

Zenapax Resources
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