olokizumab

Olokizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody of the IgG4/kappa isotype that directly targets and neutralizes interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine involved in immune response and inflammation. Unlike other IL-6 pathway inhibitors that block the IL-6 receptor, olokizumab binds to IL-6 itself at Site 3, preventing its interaction with gp130 and subsequent formation of the hexameric signaling complex. This action inhibits both classical and trans-signaling pathways mediated by IL-6, reducing inflammation associated with autoimmune diseases. Olokizumab was developed by R-Pharm (originator UCB) and is approved under the brand name Artlegia for moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults who have an inadequate response to methotrexate or TNF inhibitors, as well as for cytokine release syndrome in COVID-19 patients. It is administered subcutaneously[1][2][3][7].

Brand names

Artlegia

Other names

Anti-IL6 - R-PharmAnti-IL-6 - R-PharmAnti-IL 6 - R-Pharm