Efalizumab

Efalizumab (Raptiva ™) is no longer available. It was withdrawn from the market in 2009. This information page is for historical interest only.

Efalizumab belongs to the class of biological response modifiers called T cell blockers It is an effective treatment in patients with moderate to severe. license plate psoriasis.

How does it work?

Efalizumab is a genetically modified form of mouse protein that targets blocking T cell activation and proliferation by binding to CD11a receptors in T cells. This prevents T cells from being released cytokines, which are the primary cause of inflammation, redness, itching and scaly skin patches characteristic of psoriasis.

How does it happen?

Initial trials of efalizumab included intravenous (IV) administration of the drug. However, a subcutaneous Formulation (SC) has been developed and is currently being used. Once the weekly dose over a period of 12 weeks improves psoriasis to some extent in approximately 50% of patients.

Improvements in psoriasis made after 12 weeks of treatment can be maintained with additional weekly doses or doses every two weeks.

Side effects

Efalizumab appears to be well tolerated. The most frequent side effects include headache, nausea, chills, pain, fever and not specific infection like the common cold. These occurred more frequently after the first injection and decreased with subsequent doses.

Treatment risks.

Efalizumab is an immunosuppressive agent and therefore increases susceptibility to infections.

WARNING: April 9, 2009. Genetech decided to voluntarily withdraw efalizumab (Raptiva) from the US market due to a potentially increased risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).
February 19, 2009. The Drug Evaluation and Research Center of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a public health notice regarding updated safety information on Raptiva (efalizumamb) due to Four reports of patients taking this drug who developed the rare life-threatening brain infection, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), and other infections.