I chose to look at the well known monoclonal antibody Humira in this blog post.
Antibodies like IgM, IgD, IgG, IgA, and IgE are made and released upon an infection to protect us. In some cases, antibodies like IgE are activated in response to particles that are not harmful to us. This can lead to allergies and autoimmune disorders. MedNet explains that monoclonal antibodies are synthetically made to counteract the proteins that attack our normal tissues when no harmful substances are present. These antibodies are made from cloned immune cells that bind to specific antigens.
According to the Humira Prescribing Report, Humira blocks tumor necrosis factor (TNF) by directly binding to TNF. TNF is naturally produced by the immune response to cause inflammation. When people have too much TNF, it can lead to Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Plaque Psoriasis, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Humira is used to treat these through inhibiting TNF binding to immune cells that cause chronic inflammation. Humira is administered commonly through bi-weekly subcutaneous injections at the site of inflammation, or through pills. Some patients see benefits after 2 to 3 week and others take months.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Redness
Rash
Swelling
Itching
Bruising
Headache
Rash
Upper respiratory infection
Hep B in people who carry it in their blood
Allergic reactions
Hives
Trouble breathing
Swelling of your face
Nervous system problems
Blood problems
Heart failure
Liver problems
Lupus syndrome
Psoriasis
In addition to these side effects, you cannot take Humira if you have a positive TB test in the event that the Humira causes the TB to reactivate from the latent to the productive state. Additionally, you can not take Humira if you have latent Hep B virus for the same reason. The report also states that there is an increased risk for serious infections leading to hospitilization or death, including sepsis, invasive fungal infections, and other opportunistic pathogens. Lastly, forms of lymphoma and other tumors have occured taking Humira, especially in children. These are all possible risks that come with taking a TNF blocker because TNF is important in preventing tumorogenesis, spesis, and viral replication. The presence of Humira primarily decreases the innate immune response because TNF is primarily released upon activation of macrophages. This then activates lymphocytes, NK cells, and granulocytes to fight off infection. Pathogens that your immune system could have easily fought off before become more of a challenge with decreased TNF. It is important to research and read all of the possible side effects to determine if the risk is greater than the reward regarding your health while on this drug.
Microbiology, Get Cultured! 