Pharmacology · single question

A patient with RA takes adalimumab (Humira). What is the mechanism of action of Humira?

  1. Anti-RANKL monoclonal antibody
  2. Anti-TNF-alpha monoclonal antibody
  3. Anti-IgE monoclonal antibody
  4. Anti-IL-17A monoclonal antibody
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Correct answer: B. Anti-TNF-alpha monoclonal antibody

  • A. Anti-RANKL (denosumab/Prolia) targets bone resorption for osteoporosis, not RA.
  • B. Correct. Adalimumab (Humira) is a fully human monoclonal antibody that specifically binds and neutralizes TNF-alpha, a pro-inflammatory cytokine central to RA pathogenesis.
  • C. Anti-IgE (omalizumab/Xolair) is used for allergic asthma, not RA.
  • D. Anti-IL-17A antibodies (e.g., secukinumab) are used for psoriasis and ankylosing spondylitis, not RA first-line.

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