We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is Canakinumab?

Deanna Baranyi
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 6,333
Share

Canakinumab is an injectable antibody that blocks the buildup of an immune system protein known as interleukin-1 beta (1L-1Β). It is administered every eight weeks to people suffering from specific cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome diseases, particularly Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS) and familial cold auto-inflammatory syndrome (FCAS). Although it may be beneficial for people experiencing acute gout and type 1 diabetes, research as of 2011 is unclear as to whether the risks of its use outweigh the benefits. As with many drugs, there are some side effects to using canakinumab, such as a weak immune system and, possibly, cardiovascular issues and renal problems.

The primary use of canakinumab is for treatment of the symptoms of cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome diseases. People who suffer from these diseases have a buildup of an immune system protein called interleukin-1 beta. This buildup causes frequent fevers, rashes, chills, headaches, joint pain, muscle aches and extreme tiredness. Injecting canakinumab into the patient may allow the person’s body to block the protein, lower the amount of buildup and reduce inflammation. Injecting the drug into the body also will help lessen that person's symptoms of the disease.

Research has indicated that canakinumab also may help people who suffer from acute gout. In initial studies, patients who were administered this drug experienced less pain as compared to traditional gout treatments. Soon after, these studies were called to the public's attention by concerned watch groups whose members said that, while the drug is effective in lessening the pain associated with gout, the data available regarding the safety of the drug was not sufficient.

Likewise, canakinumab has shown that it may be helpful for people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Specifically, early research — including a study open to children as young as 6 years old — has indicated that injections of the drug may help affected patients make insulin. Some watch groups, however, believe the risks of using the drug are greater than the benefit.

Canakinumab will weaken the immune system and should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional. This weakening may lead to illnesses of the respiratory system and should be avoided by people with an already weak immune system and by people taking other drugs that will weaken the immune system. In addition, the drug may cause dizziness and upset stomach. Some researchers believe it may cause cardiovascular problems and renal ailments, as well. The drug was developed in 2009 and, as of 2011, the cancer risks remain unknown.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Deanna Baranyi
By Deanna Baranyi
Deanna Baranyi, a freelance writer and editor with a passion for the written word, brings a diverse skill set to her work. With degrees in relevant fields and a keen ability to understand and connect with target audiences, she crafts compelling copy, articles, and content that inform and engage readers.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Deanna Baranyi
Deanna Baranyi
Deanna Baranyi, a freelance writer and editor with a passion for the written word, brings a diverse skill set to her...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-canakinumab.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.