What is a TNF inhibitor?
Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, also know as TNF inhibitors or TNF blockers, are a form of biologic drug that helps with autoimmune conditions and the fight against inflammation. Biologic drugs are a form of DMARDs but work slightly different. DMARDs work to suppress your immune system as a whole whereas biologics suppress specific areas of the immune system. TNF inhibitors work to block TNF which is an inflammatory protein.
Who needs to take an TNF inhibitor?
If you are diagnosed with any of the following conditions, you may be a candidate for TNF inhibitors:
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Chron’ disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Psoriasis
What are side effects of a TNF inhibitor?
Since TNF inhibitors are typically administered via injection or IV. Because of this, there is a slightly higher risk for a skin reaction at the injection site. Additional risks or side effects include (but are not limited to):
- Increased risk of infection
- Increased risk of skin cancer (important to always wear sunscreen) and lymphoma
- Could worsen pre-existing heart failure
- Could worsen pre-existing multiple sclerosis
- Drug induced lupus
If you’re starting to notice any side effects after starting TNF inhibitors, be sure to notify your doctor as soon as possible.