Sarilumab binds to both soluble and membrane-bound interleukin6 (IL-6) receptors (sIL-6R and mIL-6R) and has been shown to inhibit IL-6-mediated signaling through these receptors. IL-6 is a pleiotropic pro-inflammatory cytokine produced by a variety of cell types including T-cells and B-cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, and fibroblasts. IL-6 has been shown to be involved in diverse physiological processes such as T-cell activation, induction of immunoglobulin secretion, initiation of hepatic acute phase protein synthesis, and stimulation of hematopoietic precursor cell proliferation and differentiation.
Data regarding clinical efficacy for COVID-19 are being evaluated.
Safety Concerns:
- Risk of GI perforation
- Risk of hepatotoxicity
- Caution in patients with thrombocytopenia and neutropenia
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Regneron. Press release. REGENERON AND SANOFI BEGIN GLOBAL KEVZARA® (SARILUMAB) CLINICAL TRIAL PROGRAM IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE COVID-19. March 16, 2020.