What are the side effects of monoclonal antibody drugs?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Aihua
Introduction
In general, side effects of monoclonal antibody drugs may include immune reactions, infusion-related reactions, increased risk of infection, nervous system side effects, cardiovascular side effects, etc. Different monoclonal antibody drugs have varying side effects in the human body, and the severity and incidence of these side effects also differ. If adverse reactions occur, patients should promptly contact their doctor and follow medical advice for appropriate treatment.
Generally, the side effects of monoclonal antibody drugs include immune reactions, infusion-related reactions, increased risk of infection, neurological side effects, cardiovascular side effects, and others. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Immune Reactions
Some monoclonal antibodies target immune cells such as T cells and B cells. Overstimulation of these cells can lead to excessive cytokine release, potentially causing allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases.
2. Infusion-Related Reactions
When certain monoclonal antibodies are administered intravenously, patients may experience infusion-related reactions, which typically occur early in treatment. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, rash, and itching; severe cases may involve dyspnea and hypotension—symptoms resembling allergic reactions. These reactions result from the drug or its excipients stimulating the body to release inflammatory mediators such as histamine.
3. Increased Risk of Infection
Monoclonal antibodies suppress specific components of the immune system, potentially weakening the body's defense against pathogens and increasing susceptibility to infections. For example, monoclonal antibodies used in treating autoimmune diseases reduce immune activity, thereby increasing the likelihood of infections in sites such as the respiratory and urinary tracts, manifesting as symptoms like fever, cough, and painful urination.
4. Neurological Side Effects
Some monoclonal antibodies may cause neurological adverse effects, including headache, dizziness, and peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy presents as numbness, tingling, and abnormal sensations in the limbs, affecting mobility and quality of life. The underlying mechanism may involve direct or indirect damage to nerve cells by the drug.
5. Cardiovascular Side Effects
Monoclonal antibodies may trigger the release of inflammatory mediators and activate vascular endothelial cells in the cardiovascular system, leading to endothelial dysfunction and other cardiovascular abnormalities.
Different monoclonal antibody drugs have varying side effects, with differences in both severity and incidence rates. If adverse reactions occur, patients should promptly contact their physician and follow medical advice for appropriate management.
