Review Question - QID 3314

IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) is a naturally occurring molecule that blocks the biologic effects of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1. A recombinant form of human IL-1Ra, anakinra, is used to manage rheumatoid arthritis patients who are refractory to more conventional forms of treatment. Methotrexate and leflunomide are DMARD's, and are typically prescribed if low dose corticosteroids are ineffective. Adalimumab and etanercept are both TNF-alpha blockers.

Kalliolias et al summarize clinical trials and meeting abstracts regarding the experience with anakinra in the treatment of patients with rheumatic diseases. They conlcude that anakinra is less effective than TNF-alpha blockers in the treatment of RA, and can be successful in treating adult-onset Still's disease and systemic-onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (previously known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, or JRA).