Health

Safety review of tumor necrosis factor blockers

NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted June 23, 2008

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The Food and Drug Administration on June 4 announced that it is conducting a safety review of several drugs known as tumor necrosis factor blockers.

The drugs Enbrel, Humira, Remicade and Cimzia, all of which are used to treat juvenile idiopathic arthritis and Crohn's disease, are being reviewed for a possible association with the development of lymphoma and other cancers in children and young adults.

During the review, which may take up to six months to complete, the FDA is advising prescribers to weigh the possible association with lymphoma and other cancers against the benefits of treatment with the medications.

The agency also is urging physicians and patients to report side effects from the drugs under review to the MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either by calling 800-332-1088 or online (link).

Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/06/23/hlbf0623.htm.

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