What is Natalizumab?

Natalizumab is a monoclonal antibody approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and Crohn's disease (CD) . Natalizumab was originally approved to treat multiple sclerosis in 2004, but the drug was withdrawn from the market after deaths from progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy were reported during treatment with natalizumab. However, the FDA reintroduced the drug in 2006.

Natalizumab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to the α-4 integrin receptor on vascular endothelial cells. Integrins are a class of selective adhesion molecules composed of multiple subunits that, as a class, contribute to the chemotaxis of leukocytes to sites of systemic inflammation. The specific mechanisms by which natalizumab works in multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease have not been fully determined. Natalizumab reduces inflammation by adhering to receptors that bind to these integrins during an inflammatory episode, thereby directly preventing white blood cells from traveling through blood vessels and producing a pro-inflammatory response. In patients with multiple sclerosis, natalizumab blocks the α4-β1 integrin receptor in the blood-brain barrier, thereby preventing white blood cells from entering the patient's central nervous system (CNS). Multiple studies have shown that MS patients taking natalizumab experienced significant reductions in the number of lesions.

Natalizumab's original patent drug is not marketed in the country and cannot be included in medical insurance. Currently, the generic drug natalizumab on the market overseas may cost more than 8,000 US dollars per box (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates), which is very expensive. For more drug information and specific prices, please consult Yaode Medical Consultant.