Menu

Internal MedicineOur MissionOur Team
CardiovascularDermatologicEndocrineENTGastrointestinalGenito-UrinaryHematologyImmunologyMusculoskeletalNeurologicOphthalmologyPsychiatricPulmonaryGLP-1 Medications
All Health ConditionsCardiovascularDermatologicEndocrineENTGastrointestinalGenito-UrinaryHematologyImmunologyMusculoskeletalNeurologicOphthalmologyPsychiatricPulmonary
Medication GuidePatient FormsYour First VisitPatient ResourcesLab VisitsPatient PortalHIPAA PrivacyLocal VitalsFAQ
Supplements
Outbreaks
Contact Us
Back to Medication Guide

Canakinumab

Generic Name: Canakinumab

Brand Names: Ilaris

Canakinumab is an IL-1β blocker for periodic fever syndromes, gout, and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

RheumatologicBiologic

What It's Used For

Canakinumab is prescribed for:

  • Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPS)
  • Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis
  • Frequent gout flares
  • Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS)
  • Immunology autoinflammatory conditions

Side Effects

Common side effects:

  • Nasopharyngitis
  • Diarrhea
  • Rhinitis
  • Nausea

Serious side effects:

  • Serious infections
  • Macrophage activation syndrome
  • Hypersensitivity

Additional Information

What is Canakinumab?

Canakinumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically binds and neutralizes IL-1β.

Dosing Advantage

Given every 4-8 weeks depending on condition, much less frequent than anakinra.

Gout Use

Option for patients with frequent gout flares who cannot take NSAIDs, colchicine, or corticosteroids.

Learn more at MedlinePlus.

Related Health Conditions

This medication is commonly used to treat or manage the following conditions:

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives (urticaria) are itchy, raised welts caused by histamine release, triggered by allergens, physical stimuli, medications, infections, stress, or sometimes, unknown factors.

Learn More

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific health condition and medical history.

Loading questions...

Ask Dr. Zimmer

Have questions about Canakinumab? Get expert answers from Dr. Zimmer.

Privacy: Your questions are posted anonymously for your health privacy. Your name and email are only used for admin purposes.

Questions are reviewed before posting. You'll see your question and Dr. Zimmer's answer below once approved.