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Biologics are drugs that inhibit key factors responsible for inflammatory responses. During a normal immune response a chemical messenger called tumor necrosis factor, or TNF, attaches to certain cells throughout the body. This in turn causes these cells to release chemicals that can cause inflammation. In some cases, the body produces too much TNF, which can overwhelm the ability of the immune system to control inflammation. Enbrel®(Entanercept)Enbrel is a biologic used to treat the autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. During a normal immune response a chemical messenger called tumor necrosis factor, or TNF, attaches to certain cells throughout the body, triggering inflammation. In some cases, however, the body produces too much TNF, causing an overactive inflammatory response, like that seen in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. Enbrel deactivates some TNF before it triggers inflammation. By interrupting the chain of events that leads to inflammation, Enbrel can work with the immune system to help reduce inflammatory symptoms. It is now being studied in pemphigus vulgaris patients. Side Effects & InteractionsMay increase infection risk or decrease blood cell counts when used with other immune modulators or immunosuppressant drugs. Can also cause: Injection site pain, redness, and swelling; fever, rash, cold or flu symptoms; stomach upset, nausea, vomiting. Related WebsitesRituxan® (Rituximab)Rituxan is a biologic used to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It may also be effective in treating pemphigus. Given intravenously, it binds to a protein on the surface of B cells (cells that are part of the immune system). This in turn leads to the destruction of these B cells. Since B cells play a role in causing pemphigus blisters, some researchers believe that the destruction of these B cells can reduce or eliminate pemphigus blisters. Possible Side Effects & InteractionsWeakness, fatigue, sweating, chills and shaking, headache, breathlessness, racing heart and muscle aches. Related WebsitesRemicade® (Infliximab)Remicade is a biologic used to Rheumatoid Arthritis. It is now in clinical trial for pemphigus vulgaris. It is given intravenously and like Enbrel blocks TNF inhibitors. Possible Side Effects & InteractionsWeakness, fatigue, sweating, chills and shaking, headache, breathlessness, racing heart and muscle aches. Related Websites
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