Rilonacept
Rilonacept is a biologic medication that works as an interleukin-1 inhibitor by binding to IL-1α and IL-1β proteins, preventing them from triggering inflammation. It is prescribed for adults and children with cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPS), including familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome and Muckle-Wells syndrome, as well as for the treatment of gout flares in adults.
Rilonacept is an IL-1 inhibitor used to treat inflammatory conditions like CAPS and gout by blocking interleukin-1 signaling.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L04AC04
- RxNorm
- 763450
- Generic
- Rilonacept
- Class
- atc-l04
- Brands
- Arcalyst
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Rilonacept is indicated for the treatment of cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPS) in adults and children aged 12 and older, including familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome (FCAS) and Muckle-Wells syndrome (MWS). It is also used for the treatment of gout flares in adults when conventional therapies are contraindicated or inappropriate.
Rilonacept is a recombinant fusion protein that acts as a soluble decoy receptor, binding to interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) cytokines. By capturing these inflammatory proteins before they can interact with cell surface receptors, it effectively blocks IL-1 signaling and reduces the inflammatory response.
Rilonacept is administered via subcutaneous injection. Common side effects may include injection site reactions, upper respiratory infections, and headache. Patients should be monitored for signs of infection during treatment, as immunosuppressive medications may increase susceptibility to serious infections. It should not be used in patients with active infections.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy