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Raptiva (efalizumab)
Efalizumab blocks the CD11a subunit of lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1), preventing T-cell activation and migration to the skin.
Efalizumab blocks the CD11a subunit of lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1), preventing T-cell activation and migration to the skin. Used for Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
At a glance
| Generic name | Raptiva (efalizumab) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Genentech, Inc. |
| Drug class | Monoclonal antibody; integrin inhibitor |
| Target | CD11a (LFA-1 alpha subunit) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Immunology/Dermatology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Efalizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to CD11a, a component of the integrin LFA-1 expressed on T lymphocytes. By blocking LFA-1, the drug inhibits T-cell adhesion to intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) on endothelial cells and antigen-presenting cells, thereby reducing T-cell activation, proliferation, and trafficking to inflamed tissues. This mechanism reduces the pathogenic immune response in psoriasis.
Approved indications
- Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
Common side effects
- Headache
- Infection (including serious infections)
- Psoriasis exacerbation or rebound
- Thrombocytopenia
- Worsening of psoriasis upon discontinuation
Key clinical trials
- PsoBest - The German Psoriasis Registry
- Spanish Registry of Systemic Treatments in Psoriasis
- Study of the Drug Efalizumab (Raptiva), for Adult Patients With Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis (PHASE3)
- Prevention of Autoimmune Destruction and Rejection of Human Pancreatic Islets Following Transplantation for Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Discoid Lupus Erythematosus of the Scalp and a Trial of Biologic Therapy With Raptiva (PHASE2)
- Efalizumab for Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE1)
- Evaluate Whether Combination Therapy With Methotrexate and Raptiva in Psoriasis Patients is Safe and Increases Efficacy (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- A Multicentre, Open Label Phase IIIb/IV Study of Subcutaneously Administered Raptiva in the Treatment of Adult Subjects With Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis (PHASE4)
Primary sources
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| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |