anakinra
Pronunciation: an-ah-KIN-rah
A recombinant human interleukin-1 receptor antagonist used to treat autoinflammatory conditions and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Full Definition
Anakinra is a recombinant human interleukin-1 receptor antagonist that blocks the biological activity of IL-1α and IL-1β by competitively inhibiting IL-1 binding to the interleukin-1 type I receptor. Originally developed for rheumatoid arthritis, it has shown significant efficacy in pediatric autoinflammatory diseases and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The medication requires daily subcutaneous injection and commonly causes injection site reactions. Unlike other biologics, anakinra has a short half-life, allowing for rapid reversibility if adverse effects occur.
Usage
Usage note: Brand name Kineret should be capitalized; note daily dosing frequency.
In Context
- "Daily anakinra injections resulted in rapid control of the patient's systemic inflammatory symptoms." — Treatment response assessment
- "The family reported improved injection site tolerance after rotating anakinra administration sites." — Medication counseling note