Canakinumab

Brand names: Ilaris

A long-acting IL-1 inhibitor.

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Canakinumab
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Animated explainer

Immune cellTarget cellIL-1Medicine
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How it works · Blocking IL-1
Immune cells release IL-1

IL-1 is a chemical messenger. Overactive immune cells release it to call in more inflammation.

What it’s used for

Still’s disease, periodic fever syndromes and gout flares in people who cannot use usual treatments.

How it works

An antibody that neutralizes IL-1 beta, a key driver of fever and crystal-related inflammation.

How it’s taken

An injection under the skin every 4 to 8 weeks, or as a single dose for a gout flare.

Side effects

Infections, injection-site reactions and low white counts.

Monitoring

TB screening and blood counts.

Good to know

Avoid live vaccines during treatment.

At a glance

Class

Biologics

Brand names

Ilaris

Reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD, FACR

Questions about your own care?

Book an in-person or telehealth consultation with Dr. Tahir.

For education only. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without talking to your care team.