Subcutaneous Injectable Drugs Hypersensitivity and Desensitization: Insulin and Monoclonal Antibodies

Abstract

Injectable drugs, including monoclonal antibodies, are becoming crucial components in the management of chronic diseases. The most common side effects are local reactions at the site of administration. With the increased and prolonged use of these medications, we are seeing increased reports of hypersensitivity reactions. The aim of this article is to discuss the signs and symptoms of these reactions as well as management, which may involve desensitization for 3 commonly encountered injectable drugs: tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors (etanercept and adalimumab), insulin, and omalizumab.

Keywords: Adalimumab; Etanercept; Injection site reactions; Insulin; MoAbs; Omalizumab; Systemic hypersensitivity reactions; TNF-α inhibitors.