Tumour necrosis factor inhibitors--what we need to know
Hasan, U.
New Zealand Medical Journal 119(1246): U2336
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 1175-8716 PMID: 17151710 Document Number: 603589
Biologics have revolutionised the treatment of various autoimmune diseases. Earlier in 2006, New Zealand's Pharmaceutical Management Agency (PHARMAC) approved adalimumab (anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] agent) for treatment of severe, unresponsive rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients. Etanercept has been available for chronic juvenile arthritis in selected, younger patients in New Zealand. This review article describes some of the common adverse events related to anti-TNF inhibitors and the importance of establishing guidelines for surveillance in the New Zealand health system.