Efalizumab is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that binds specifically to the CD11a subunit of LFA-1 (lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1), a leukocyte cell surface protein. By this mechanism, efalizumab inhibits the binding of LFA-1 to ICAM-1, which interferes with T lymphocytes adhesion to other cell types. By preventing LFA-1/ICAM binding, efalizumab may alleviate signs and symptoms of psoriasis by inhibiting several stages in the immunologic cascade.
This medicinal substance has been classified in the anatomical therapeutic chemical (ATC) classification according to its main therapeutic use as follows:
| ATC code | Group title | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| L04AG02 | Efalizumab | L Antineoplastic and immunomodulating agents → L04 Immunosuppressants → L04A Immunosuppressants → L04AG Monoclonal antibodies |
Competent medicine agencies globally have authorized commercialization of this active ingredient according to these medication package inserts (MPIs):
| Title | Information Source | Document Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAPTIVA Powder and solvent for solution for injection | European Medicines Agency (EU) | MPI, EU: SmPC |
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