Medicine 9 of 10
Anifrolumab for Myositis
Common brands in India: Saphnelo®
How taken
IV infusion about 30 minutes, once every 4 weeks
Time to work
Usually 3–6 months; skin often improves first
Cost rating
💵💵💵💵💵 (5/5)
This drug has recently come to India. It is currently not available at all centres, and is mostly given in trials for different inflammatory myositis. It is not licensed in juvenile dermatomyositis. Subcutaneous self-injections are in development.
How does Anifrolumab work?
In certain types of myositis, a specific chemical alarm called Type I Interferon is stuck in the “ON” position, constantly irritating the skin and muscles.
Anifrolumab works by plugging up the sensors that receive this alarm. This constant alarm tells the immune system to keep attacking healthy tissues, leading to inflammation in the skin, muscles, and other organs.
- Blocks the interferon alarm system that drives inflammation
- Reduces abnormal immune activation
- Helps calm inflammation in the skin and muscles
- Targets a specific pathway without broadly suppressing the entire immune system
Uses
Anifrolumab is currently approved for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is increasingly being used by specialists for dermatomyositis and other interferon-driven autoimmune diseases.
How is Anifrolumab given?
Anifrolumab is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion that usually takes about 30 minutes. Treatment is generally given once every 4 weeks in a hospital or infusion clinic.
Common side effects
Most people tolerate Anifrolumab well. Common side effects include upper respiratory tract infections (colds), sinus infections, bronchitis, headache, mild nausea, and mild infusion reactions.
Why are blood tests necessary?
Anifrolumab generally requires less laboratory monitoring than many older immunosuppressive medicines. Monitoring may still include complete blood count and checks for signs of infection.
Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Anifrolumab can increase the risk of shingles. Contact your healthcare team immediately if you develop painful blisters, burning or tingling skin, or a rash affecting one side of the body.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and vaccines
There is limited information regarding Anifrolumab during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Inactivated vaccines are generally safe and annual flu vaccination is encouraged. Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment. Ideally, vaccinations should be updated before starting therapy whenever possible.