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IL-1 Receptor Antagonist

Anakinra

Brand names: Kineret

Anakinra is a recombinant interleukin-1 receptor antagonist used in rheumatoid arthritis and in several autoinflammatory conditions such as cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes and Still's disease.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It competitively blocks the interleukin-1 receptor, neutralising the pro-inflammatory effects of IL-1alpha and IL-1beta.

Prescribing in practice

  • It increases the risk of serious infection, so screen for and treat active infection before starting and avoid combining with TNF inhibitors.
  • Administered by subcutaneous injection, usually once daily.
  • Injection-site reactions are common, and neutropenia can occur.

Monitoring

Monitor full blood count (including neutrophil count) periodically and remain vigilant for signs of infection.

Counselling the patient

  • Report signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or persistent cough promptly.
  • Injection-site redness or itching is common and usually settles; rotate injection sites.
  • Ensure vaccinations are up to date and avoid live vaccines while treated.

Evidence & guidelines

Anakinra is an established IL-1 blocking therapy supported by trial data in rheumatoid arthritis and autoinflammatory syndromes; consult the SPC.

Reference: NICE TA71; BSR biologics guidelines; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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