ANAKINRA

What is anakinra?

Anakinra is an IL-1 receptor antagonist that reduces IL-1 in the body. IL-1 belongs to a group of substances called cytokines, which induce inflammation and provoke the immune response. Anakinra works by blocking this immune response from occurring, thus decreasing inflammation in the body. Anakinra treats rheumatoid arthritis in those over 18 years of age.

How can anakinra be used in long COVID?

Patients diagnosed with long COVID are thought to be in a constant state of inflammation. This inflammation manifests in symptoms such as fatigue, “brain fog,” exercise intolerance, wheezing, and trouble breathing. The current working theory is that by decreasing the inflammatory response using anakinra, the inflammation in the body will decrease and bring patients back to their pre-COVID baselines.

Research thus far has been mixed. A systematic review conducted by researchers in Germany found anakinra had no positive or negative effect on hospitalized patients dealing with COVID-19 symptoms [1]. However, in a review of all available evidence of anakinra, researchers think it may benefit patients with severe respiratory problems that may progress to respiratory failure [2]. As of November 2022, the FDA granted anakinra Emergency Use Authorization for certain hospitalized patients requiring supplemental oxygen [3]. Whether that authorization gets extended to use outside of hospitals remains.

References:

¹https://doi.org/10.1186/s40001-023-01072-z

 ²https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109075

³ https://www.healio.com/news/primary-care/20221117/top-in-rheumatology-covid19-treatment-authorization-a-personal-story-of-long-covid

Active Clinical Trials: Long COVID, Anakinra | Card Results | ClinicalTrials.gov