Can a rheumatoid arthritis drug tame CAR-T's worst side effects?

NCT ID NCT04359784

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This phase 2 trial tested whether anakinra, a drug normally used for rheumatoid arthritis, can prevent two serious side effects of CAR-T cell therapy: cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and nerve damage. The study enrolled 27 adults with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma who were receiving CAR-T treatment. Researchers gave anakinra alongside CAR-T therapy and monitored for CRS and neurotoxicity.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Anakinra (a drug used for rheumatoid arthritis)
What this could lead to: If it works, anakinra could help make CAR-T cell therapy safer by reducing severe side effects like cytokine release syndrome and nerve damage.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 27 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Anakinra may not prevent these side effects and could have its own risks.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

B-cell neoplasm B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

B-CELL NON-HODGKIN LYMPHOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Fred Hutch/University of Washington Cancer Consortium

Seattle, Washington, 98109, United States

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