How Do Monoclonal Antibodies Integrin Blockers Work?

Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-produced antibodies that are similar to natural antibodies made by the body in response to any disease. They are designed to bind to antigens or proteins that are generally more numerous at the site of inflammation.

In any inflammatory disorder, the white blood cells (leukocytes) invade the intestinal cells to elicit an inflammatory response. Furthermore, leukocytes from the blood vessels move to this inflammation site and aggravate the inflammatory response.

Integrin is the protein mainly found on the surface of circulating leukocytes and intestinal cells. Monoclonal antibodies block the action of integrin, thereby inhibiting the binding of leukocytes to the intestinal cells.

Monoclonal antibodies as integrin blockers are mainly used to treat:

• Ulcerative colitis (a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation in the digestive tract)
• Crohn's disease (a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract)
• Multiple sclerosis

Some of the side effects of monoclonal antibodies integrin blockers may include:

• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Vertigo
• Itching
• Constipation
• Toothache
• Irregular menstruation
• Dry skin
• Tremor
• Night sweats
• Bloating
• Cough
• Joint pain
• Abnormal liver function test
• Vaginal infection
• Viral infection
• Absence of menstruation
• Headache

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of monoclonal antibodies integrin blockers include:

• Entyvio
• Natalizumab
• Tysabri
• Vedolizumab