Canadian warning links hepatitis B reactivation with anti-TNF alpha drugs
Posted Feb. 2, 2006
In January 2006, Canadian health officials worked with the distributors of Enbrel (generic name etanercept), Humira (generic name adalimumab) and Remicade (generic name infliximab) to update safety information related to the biologic treatments. The update warns of the risk of hepatitis B reactivation associated with these anti-TNF alpha drugs.
Amgen Canada, Abbott Laboratories and Schering Canada, which distribute Enbrel, Humira and Remicade, respectively, issued the update by letter on Jan. 18, 2006.
According to the letter written in consultation with Health Canada, recent post-marketing reports for these drugs showed that, very rarely, hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation has been reported in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection receiving these anti-TNF alpha therapies. The letter recommends that patients at risk for HBV infection be evaluated for prior evidence of HBV infection before initiating anti-TNF alpha therapy. According to the letter, reactivation of HBV has been reported with other immunosuppressive drugs.
While U.S. health officials have not issued a similar warning, people who have had or are at risk for HBV should talk to their doctor if they are taking or considering taking these drugs.
 Related link: Letter warns of hepatitis B reactivation associated with anti-TNF alpha products
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