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Type I Interferon Receptor Antagonist (Monoclonal Antibody)

Anifrolumab (Type I IFN Receptor Inhibitor — SLE)

Brand names: Saphnelo

Anifrolumab is a monoclonal antibody against the type I interferon receptor, used for moderate-to-severe systemic lupus erythematosus alongside standard therapy.

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 binds subunit 1 of the type I interferon receptor (IFNAR1), blocking the activity of type I interferons that drive much of the inflammatory pathway in lupus.

Prescribing in practice

  • It increases susceptibility to serious infections, including respiratory infections and herpes zoster, so screen for active infection before starting.
  • Given by intravenous infusion under specialist supervision; watch for hypersensitivity and infusion-related reactions.
  • Avoid concurrent use of other biologic therapies and avoid live vaccines.

Monitoring

Monitor for signs of infection (including herpes zoster) and for hypersensitivity or infusion reactions.

Counselling the patient

  • Report fever, cough, or any signs of infection promptly.
  • Report a new painful rash or blisters, which could indicate shingles.
  • Ensure vaccinations, including against shingles where appropriate, are considered before starting; avoid live vaccines.

Evidence & guidelines

Use in SLE is supported by the TULIP trial programme and relevant NICE guidance; consult the SPC for detail.

Reference: Morand et al. NEJM 2020 (TULIP-2 trial); MHRA Approval Saphnelo 2022; NICE Appraisal; BSR SLE Guidelines 2023; 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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