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Biologic Agents in Broadway, Kolkata

Biologic Agents

Biologic Agents in Kolkata

In rheumatology, biologic agents are drugs designed to target specific components of the immune system involved in inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis. Unlike traditional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), which broadly suppress immune function, biologics focus on blocking particular proteins or cells, like cytokines (TNF-α, interleukins) or B-cell activity, that contribute to inflammation. These drugs, often in the form of monoclonal antibodies or fusion proteins, help reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and slow the progression of disease.

Biologics are typically prescribed for patients with severe symptoms or those who have not responded well to other treatments. While they can be highly effective, biologics carry potential risks, including increased susceptibility to infections, infusion reactions, and other side effects. Therefore, close monitoring by healthcare providers is essential during treatment.

FAQ's

Different biologics target distinct immune system components that contribute to inflammation. For example, some medications block pro-inflammatory B cells or T cells, while tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors prevent the inflammatory protein TNF. Due to the complex nature of inflammatory disorders and their various causes, choosing a suitable medication can be difficult, despite the abundance of choices. That's why some people may benefit greatly from a certain biologic while others may not. Additionally, a biologic can benefit you initially but eventually stop working. Your doctor will probably recommend trying a different biologic if the first one you try doesn't work or stops functioning for you.

Many rheumatologic disorders are frequently treated with biologic medicines, such as:

  • RA, or rheumatoid arthritis
  • Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
  • AS, or ankylosing spondylitis
  • JIA, or juvenile idiopathic arthritis
  • SLE, or systemic lupus erythematosus
  • Vasculitis
  • Additional inflammatory and autoimmune disorders

Most biologics are complicated mixes that are difficult to identify or characterise, in contrast to most medications that are chemically synthesised and have a known structure. Biological products, particularly those produced through biotechnology, are frequently vulnerable to microbiological infection and thermal stress. Consequently, and contrary to the majority of traditional medications, it is imperative to apply aseptic principles from the very beginning of the manufacturing process.

Biological products are often at the forefront of biomedical research and may eventually become the most effective way to treat a wide range of diseases and ailments for which there are currently no other effective treatments.

The majority of biological medications have not been thoroughly researched for nursing or pregnant patients.

  • Some medicines, like follitropin alfa (Gonal-f), nivolumab (Opdivo), and pembrolizumab (Keytruda), may harm a developing foetus. This is based on how these medicines work and what animal studies have shown.

  • There could be certain biologic medications in breast milk. Because many medications are excreted in breast milk and may have major harmful effects on the newborn, breastfeeding mothers should discuss with their doctors whether to halt or cease taking biologics.

Some chronic diseases that are dormant, like tuberculosis, may flare up in response to biologics. If you suffer from multiple sclerosis or other illnesses such as severe congestive heart failure, they might not be the right fit for you. Before starting a biologic, your doctor will test you for tuberculosis by blood or skin. A test for chronic hepatitis B and C is also necessary.

Biologics don't harm the foetus or have any effect on fertility, according to research conducted on animals, but these results don't necessarily translate to human outcomes. Pregnant women should only use them if necessary because we don't know how they affect a developing child. Before surgery, your doctor will advise you to discontinue using your biologic. You can resume treatment once your wounds have fully healed and the risk of infection has subsided.

Biologics can reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis by specifically targeting certain components of the immune system. This approach may lead to fewer adverse effects compared to other medications used to treat this condition.

  • Severe infections, liver damage, decreased haematopoiesis, nausea, and injection site pain or swelling are among the risks.

  • Some malignancies, especially lymphomas, may be more likely to occur, yet current evidence indicates otherwise.

  • Notify your physician right away if you have any odd symptoms, such as fever or unexplained symptoms.

  • Screening for hepatitis and tuberculosis is required before initiating biologics because of the possibility of dormant infections reactivating.

  • Patients with hepatic impairments ought to speak with their physician regarding biologic medication safety.

The route of administration for biological products varies depending on the specific product. While pharmaceutical companies are prioritising the development of oral medications, most biologics are not currently formulated for oral use. Since biological medicines are sensitive to light and heat, it is important to carefully follow any preparation guidelines provided by your healthcare professional. Intravenous infusions are administered through a vein and typically require several hours to complete. These are usually given in a doctor's office and may require only a single treatment session. In some cases, biological treatments may need to be administered gradually and at regular intervals.

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