Biologic Agents and the Treatment of Autoimmune Disorders

The biologic agent can limit part of the immune system. This can slow or stop damage to healthy tissue.

Autoimmune disorders that have been treated with biologic agents include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis

Side Effects of Biologic Agents

Side effects will depend on:

• Type of biologic agent
• Dose—how much of medication you take and how often
• How it is delivered—injection or through IV

The body’s reaction can also vary. Some possible side effects of biologic therapies include:

• Infection
• High blood pressure
• Lightheadedness
• Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, muscle and joint aches
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Redness, rash, and/or pain at injection site
• Headache
• Allergic reaction
• Increased risk of Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other types of cancer in children and teens taking TNF inhibitors
• Possible reactivation of latent tuberculosis infections with TNF inhibitors

If your doctor recommends biologic therapy:

• Ask about which side effects and complications you may have.
• Ask if you should be tested for tuberculosis.
• Tell your doctor if you have a current infection.

A Step Forward in Medicine

Many biologic agents have been approved by the FDA. Many more are being developed.