What it means
A group of drugs, often just called biologics, that boost, direct or calm the immune systemih-MYOON SIS-tumThe body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.Full entry . They include interferons, interleukins, colony-stimulating factors that raise white or red blood cell counts, and monoclonal antibodies such as TNF blockers (adalimumab, infliximab, etanercept). They are used for some cancers, rheumatoid arthritisROO-muh-toyd ar-THRY-tisA long-term autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints.rheumat/o flowing, joint pain-oid likearthr/o joint-itis inflammationFull entry , inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. Most are given by injection or IV.
For the nurse
Many biologics lower the body's defenses. A tuberculosis test is done before starting TNF blockers. Teach the client to report fever or signs of infection, to avoid live vaccines unless the provider approves, and how to give injections at home. Watch for infusion reactions.
At a glance
| Drug class | biologic response modifier (immunomodulator) |
|---|---|
| Spanish | modificador de la respuesta biológica |
| Also written | Biologic Response Modifiers, biologics, biological therapy, biological therapies |
Related terms
antineoplastic
A drug used to treat cancer by killing cancer cells or stopping them from growing and dividing.
rheumatoid arthritis
A long-term autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints.
immune system
The body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.
opportunistic infection
An infection caused by a germ that rarely makes healthy people sick but takes advantage of a weakened immune system.