Golimumab: A Novel Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor

• Golimumab is the first human monoclonal antibody to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) administered monthly by subcutaneous injection (pre-filled syringe or pre-filled pen, auto-injector). • The drug is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of severe/moderate active forms of Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis not responding adequately to conventional therapy. • This review presents an update of the current knowledge about the molecule. It includes the most recent results of phase-III studies, latest findings on pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, and pharmacoeconomic aspects. • Taken together the data demonstrated that golimumab is effective in improving the signs and symptoms of the disease and the physical function of the patients in both the short and long term and exhibits a favorable safety profile which appears to be similar to other anti-TNF agents. • In addition, golimumab proved to be cost-effective and easy to use. This summary slide represents the opinions of the authors, and not necessarily the opinions of the publisher or editorial board. This material has been peer reviewed. Medical writing assistance for this study and summary slide was provided by Dr. Pietro Zucchi, freelance medical writer and Dr. Itala Brancaleone freelance translator.