Vobarilizumab

Monoclonal Antibody (bispecific Nanobody/VHH Based Fusion)Rx: InvestigationalCompound: Investigational

Also known as: ALX-0061, anti-IL-6R Nanobody

Educational Only — Not medical advice. Consult a qualified clinician before using any peptide.

Summary

Vobarilizumab (ALX-0061) is a bispecific Nanobody developed by Ablynx targeting IL-6 receptor and albumin. It was investigated for rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The albumin-binding domain extends its half-life. Clinical development was discontinued after Phase II results did not support further advancement in SLE.

Mechanism of Action

Bispecific nanobody that simultaneously targets IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and human serum albumin (HSA); blocks IL-6 signaling by competitively inhibiting IL-6 binding to IL-6R, thereby suppressing downstream JAK/STAT3 inflammatory pathways

Routes of Administration

IntravenousSubcutaneous

Goals & Uses

  • Reduction of rheumatoid arthritis disease activityAnti Inflammatory / AutoimmuneModerate
  • Suppression of IL-6 mediated inflammationImmunomodulationModerate
  • Reduction of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disease activityAnti Inflammatory / AutoimmuneLow

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to vobarilizumab or Nanobody componentsImmunologicHigh
  • Active serious infectionsInfectiousHigh
  • Active tuberculosisInfectiousHigh

Adverse Effects

  • Injection site reactionsLocalCommon
  • Elevated liver enzymes (ALT/AST)HepaticUncommon
  • NeutropeniaHematologicUncommonLow neutrophil count
  • Infections (upper respiratory tract, urinary tract)InfectiousCommon
  • HyperlipidemiaMetabolicUncommon

Drug Interactions

  • Live vaccinesHigh
  • CYP450 substrates with narrow therapeutic indexModerate
  • Other immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate, azathioprine)Moderate

Population Constraints

  • PregnancyReproductive SafetyRelative
  • Pediatric patientsAgeRelative
  • Patients with history of diverticulitis or GI perforationGastrointestinalRelative
  • Patients with latent tuberculosisInfectious DiseaseRelative

Regulatory Status

  • European UnionInvestigationalPhase II trials conducted in EU; no marketing authorization application submitted
  • United StatesInvestigationalInvestigated under IND; no NDA filed; development discontinued
  • United KingdomUnknownNo regulatory submission or approval known

No regulatory approvals obtained in any jurisdiction. Phase II trials conducted in RA and SLE; Ablynx was acquired by Sanofi in 2018. Development in SLE was discontinued following Phase II results.

Evidence & Sources

No sources recorded yet.