Drugs targeting IL-1 or TNF

Today the importance of IL-1 and TNF for the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases is well established and undisputed, which is also evident by a variety of approved drugs. These include soluble TNF receptors (Etanercept), anti TNF antibodies (Infliximab, Adalimumab, Golimumab, Certolizumab), IL-1 receptor antagonists (Anakinra) or anti IL-1 antibodies (Canakinumab). All these reagents act at the extracellular level and allow a much more improved control of disease activity. They are also an important alternative for glucocorticoids or anti-proliferative cytostatic drugs like cyclophosphamid or azathioprine. The latter are used for very severe inflammatory flares and can have serious side effects.