Off-label use of tumour necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors and anakinra at an Australian tertiary hospital

摘要

Background: Tumour necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors (anti-TNF alpha) and anakinra are monoclonal antibodies against pro-inflammatory cytokines overexpressed in many systemic inflammatory diseases. In Australia, they are registered for the treatment of several rheumatological, gastroenterological and dermatological indications. Despite increasing observational evidence for their use in off-label indications, there is a paucity of outcome research from the Australian hospital sector.