How does infliximab work?
Infliximab is a monoclonal antibody made from human and mouse proteins. Monoclonal antibodies are produced in the laboratory to recognise and bind to specific proteins in the body. Infliximab binds to and blocks TNF-alpha, which is involved in inflammation of the bowel. People with Crohn’s disease treated with infliximab should have a reduction in bowel inflammation, fewer signs and symptoms of the disease and improved healing of the bowel tissues. Infliximab has also been shown to be effective in treating fistulae, which are a common complication of Crohn’s disease. Fistulae are abnormal channels that connect 2 nearby organs, e.g. the rectum and the vagina, causing further complications.
