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Momen Majumder MS, Hasan ATMT, Choudhury MR, Ahmed S, Miah MT, Amin MR, Shahin MA, Islam A, Shazzad MN, Hassan MM, Ahmedullah AK, Rahman MM, Yesmeen S, Uddin T, Haq SA. 2023 Management Recommendations of Bangladesh Rheumatology Society on Pharmacological Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis With Synthetic and Biologic Disease-Modifying Drugs. Cureus 2024; 16:e59395. [PMID: 38707172 PMCID: PMC11070067 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory polyarthritis in Bangladesh. Bangladesh Rheumatology Society (BRS) proposes these management recommendations to treat the considerable burden of RA in the resource-constrained situation based on the best current evidence combined with societal challenges and opportunities. BRS formed a task force (TF) comprising four rheumatologists. The TF searched for all available literature, including updated American College of Rheumatology (ACR), European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR), and Asia-Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR) and several other guidelines, and systematic literature reviews until October 2023, and then a steering committee was formed, which included rheumatologists and internists. We followed the EULAR standard operating procedures to categorize levels of evidence and grading of recommendations. This recommendation has two parts -- general (diagnosis of RA, nomenclature of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs [DMARDs], disease activity indices) and management portion. The TF agreed on four overarching principles and 12 recommendations. Overarching principles deal with early diagnosis and disease activity monitoring. Recommendations 1-5 discuss using glucocorticoids, NSAIDs, and conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARD). Recommendations 6-9 stretch the use of targeted synthetic DMARDs (tsDMARDs) and biological DMARDs (bDMARDs). The suggested DMARD therapy includes initiation with methotrexate (MTX) or another csDMARD (in case of contraindication to MTX) in the first phase and the addition of a tsDMARD in the second phase, switching to an alternative tsDMARDs or bDMARDs in the subsequent phases. The TF included the Padua prediction score for the thromboembolism risk estimation. Recommendations 10-12 cover infection screening, vaccination, and DMARD tapering. Bangladesh has a higher prevalence of RA. This recommendation will serve as a tool to treat this high burden of patients with RA scientifically and more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shamim Ahmed
- Rheumatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Md Titu Miah
- Internal Medicine, Directorate General of Medical Education, Mohakhali, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Md Robed Amin
- Internal Medicine, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Dhaka, BGD
| | - Md A Shahin
- Rheumatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Ariful Islam
- Rheumatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, BGD
| | | | - M Masudul Hassan
- Rheumatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, BGD
| | | | | | - Sabrina Yesmeen
- Rheumatology, BIRDEM (Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders) General Hospital, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Taslim Uddin
- Rehabilitation Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Syed A Haq
- Rheumatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, BGD
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2
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van Ouwerkerk L, Verschueren P, Boers M, Emery P, de Jong PHP, Landewé RB, Lems W, Smolen JS, Huizinga TW, Allaart CF, Bergstra SA. Initial glucocorticoid bridging in rheumatoid arthritis: does it affect glucocorticoid use over time? Ann Rheum Dis 2024; 83:65-71. [PMID: 37607810 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2023-224270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the use of glucocorticoids (GC) over time in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who were or were not treated initially with GC bridging therapy. METHODS Data from the BeSt, CareRA and COBRA trials were combined in an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis. We compared GC use between bridgers and non-bridgers at 12, 18 and 24 months from baseline with mixed-effects regression analysis. Secondary outcomes were mean cumulative GC dose until 24 months after baseline with and without the bridging period, Disease Activity Score based on 28 joints (DAS28) over time and number of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) changes. RESULTS 252/625 patients (40%) were randomised to GC bridging (bridgers). Excluding the period of bridging, later GC use was low in both groups and cumulative doses were similar. Mean DAS28 was similar between the groups, but bridgers improved more rapidly (p<0.001) in the first 6 months and the bridgers required significantly fewer changes in DMARDs (incidence rate ratio 0.59 (95% CI 0.38 to 0.94)). GC use was higher in the bridgers at t=12 months (OR 3.27 (95% CI 1.06 to 10.08)) and the bridging schedules resulted in a difference in cumulative GC dose of 2406 mg (95% CI 1403 to 3408) over 24 months. CONCLUSION In randomised trials comparing GC bridging and no GC bridging, bridgers had a more rapid clinical improvement, fewer DMARD changes and similar late use of GC compared with non-bridgers. GC bridging per protocol resulted, as could be expected, in a higher cumulative GC dose over 2 years.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maarten Boers
- Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Emery
- Rheumatology, University of Leeds Faculty of Medicine and Health, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Robert Bm Landewé
- Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre, Sittard-Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Willem Lems
- Rheumatology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Josef S Smolen
- Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Tom Wj Huizinga
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelia F Allaart
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
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3
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Venetsanopoulou AI, Voulgari PV, Drosos AA. Advances in non-biological drugs for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:45-53. [PMID: 38126739 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2297798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide, with a systemic impact. This review explores the role of non-biological conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) in its management. AREAS COVERED We discuss the effectiveness and safety of key csDMARDs such as Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, Hydroxychloroquine, Sulfasalazine, Methotrexate, and Leflunomide in relieving symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. We also highlight the importance of combination therapy using csDMARDs, supported by clinical studies demonstrating the benefits of various csDMARD combinations. Early intervention with these drugs is emphasized to prevent joint damage, improve clinical symptoms, and enhance patient outcomes. EXPERT OPINION Overall, csDMARDs have proven pivotal in managing RA, providing cost-effective and versatile treatment options. We acknowledge the advantages of biologics but highlight the associated challenges, making the choice between non-biological and biological drugs a personalized decision. This comprehensive overview aims to provide a deeper understanding of RA treatment strategies, contributing to improving the quality of life for patients with this chronic condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliki I Venetsanopoulou
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Paraskevi V Voulgari
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Alexandros A Drosos
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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4
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Rheumatoid arthritis: advances in treatment strategies. Mol Cell Biochem 2023; 478:69-88. [PMID: 35725992 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04492-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterised by severe joint and bone damage due to heightened autoimmune response at the articular sites. Worldwide annual incidence and prevalence rate of RA is 3 cases per 10,000 population and 1%, respectively. Several genetic and environmental (microbiota, smoking, infectious agents) factors contribute to its pathogenesis. Although convention treatment strategies, predominantly Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) and Glucocorticoids (GC), are unchanged as the primary line of treatment; novel strategies consisting of biological DMARDs, are being developed and explored. Personalized approaches using biologicals targetspecific pathways associated with disease progression. However, considering the economic burden and side-effects associated with these, there is an unmet need on strategies for early stratification of the inadequate responders with cDMARDs. As RA is a complex disease with a variable remission rate, it is important not only to evaluate the current status of drugs in clinical practice but also those with the potential of personalised therapeutics. Here, we provide comprehensive data on the treatment strategies in RA, including studies exploring various combination strategies in clinical trials. Our systematic analysis of current literature found that conventional DMARDs along with glucocorticoid may be best suited for early RA cases and a combination of conventional and targeted DMARDs could be effective for treating seronegative patients with moderate to high RA activity. Clinical trials with insufficient responders to Methotrexate suggest that adding biologicals may help in such cases. However, certain adverse events associated with the current therapy advocate exploring novel therapeutic approaches such as gene therapy, mesenchymal stem cell therapy in future.
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Bergstra SA, Sepriano A, Kerschbaumer A, van der Heijde D, Caporali R, Edwards CJ, Verschueren P, de Souza S, Pope JE, Takeuchi T, Hyrich KL, Winthrop KL, Aletaha D, Stamm TA, Schoones JW, Smolen JS, Landewé RBM. Efficacy, duration of use and safety of glucocorticoids: a systematic literature review informing the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:81-94. [PMID: 36410794 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2022-223358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This systematic literature review (SLR) regarding the efficacy, duration of use and safety of glucocorticoids (GCs), was performed to inform the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Studies on GC efficacy were identified from a separate search on the efficacy of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). A combined search was performed for the duration of use and safety of GCs in RA patients. Dose-defined and time-defined GC treatment of any dose and duration (excluding intra-articular GCs) prescribed in combination with other DMARDs were considered. Results are presented descriptively. Two included studies confirmed the efficacy of GC bridging as initial therapy, with equal efficacy after 2 years of initial doses of 30 mg/day compared with 60 mg/day prednisone. Based on a recently performed SLR, in clinical trials most patients starting initial GC bridging are able to stop GCs within 12 (22% patients continued on GCs) to 24 months (10% patients continued on GCs). The safety search included 12 RCTs and 21 observational studies. Well-known safety risks of GC use were confirmed, including an increased risk of osteoporotic fractures, serious infections, diabetes and mortality. Data on cardiovascular outcomes were Inconsistent. Overall, safety risks increased with increasing dose and/or duration, but evidence on which dose is safe was conflicting. In conclusion, this SLR has confirmed the efficacy of GCs in the treatment of RA. In clinical trials, most patients have shown to be able to stop GCs within 12-24 months. Well-known safety risks of GC use have been confirmed, but with heterogeneity between studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sytske Anne Bergstra
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandre Sepriano
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Andreas Kerschbaumer
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | | | - Roberto Caporali
- University of Milan, Milan and Department of Rheumatology, ASST PINI-CTO, Milano, Italy
| | - Christopher John Edwards
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Savia de Souza
- EULAR Patient Research Partner Network, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Janet E Pope
- University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine Graduate School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Japan.,Saitama Medical University, Iruma-gun, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kimme L Hyrich
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Trust, UK
| | | | - Daniel Aletaha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Tanja A Stamm
- Section for Outcomes Research, Centre for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jan W Schoones
- Walaeus Library, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Josef S Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria.,2nd Department of Medicine, Hietzing Hospital, Wien, Austria
| | - Robert B M Landewé
- Amsterdam Rheumatology Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
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Doumen M, Pazmino S, Bertrand D, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Glucocorticoids in rheumatoid arthritis: Balancing benefits and harm by leveraging the therapeutic window of opportunity. Joint Bone Spine 2022; 90:105491. [PMID: 36410680 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2022.105491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids have been available since the early 1950s and have since become an integral part of the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Due to their rapid effect, glucocorticoids have an appealing profile for treating flares or as "bridging" agents in early RA. The efficacy of glucocorticoids to treat RA has been well established, both to control disease activity and to delay the progression of joint damage. However, despite their benefits, glucocorticoids have equally well-known adverse effects. It is generally accepted that long-term use of glucocorticoids, particularly at higher doses, is not advisable, and recent guidelines for the management of RA therefore either recommend against the use of glucocorticoids or suggest using them only as bridging therapy. Perceptions on the harmful effects of glucocorticoids remain, although mainly based on observational studies. Prolonged glucocorticoid therapy at low doses is still highly prevalent in clinical practice, but recent data suggest a rather favourable risk-benefit balance for this strategy, even in senior patients. Balancing the benefits and risks of treating RA with glucocorticoids thus remains a somewhat controversial topic. This narrative review outlines the historical and current position of glucocorticoids in the management of RA, while summarising recent evidence on their beneficial and detrimental effects. Furthermore, practical strategies for the current use and tapering of glucocorticoids in RA are formulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Doumen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rene Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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7
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González Mazarío R, Fragío Gil JJ, Ivorra Cortés J, Grau García E, Cañada Martínez AJ, González Puig L, Negueroles Albuixech RM, Román Ivorra JA. Real-world Effectiveness and Safety of JAK Inhibitors in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Single-centre Study. REUMATOLOGIA CLINICA 2022; 18:523-530. [PMID: 36309409 DOI: 10.1016/j.reumae.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness and safety of Baricitinib and Tofacitinib in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in "real world" conditions. METHODS A single centre retrospective study was performed including RA patients who had initiated treatment with Baricitinib or Tofacitinib from September-2017 to January-2020. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, efficacy and safety variables were collected from baseline and at months 1, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24. Effectiveness was evaluated by changes from the baseline in DAS28, SDAI, HAQ and acute phase reactants. Safety analysis included adverse events due to any cause, including infection or intolerance. Infection was considered severe if it implied hospitalization. Statistical analysis consisted in Bayesian mixed ordinal regression models including the monotonic effect of each visit and Kaplan-Meier survival curves. RESULTS Overall, 98 patients were included. A significant reduction of disease activity scores was noted in both groups. No difference between either treatment was detected in terms of effectiveness even in first line, after bDMARD failure, in monotherapy nor combined therapy. A total of 54 adverse events were recorded of which 18 were considered relevant. The incidence of infection, including Herpes Zoster, was similar in both groups. No patients in either group suffered any tuberculosis, thromboembolic event, malignancy, death or cardiovascular adverse events. Survival analysis did not show any difference between groups. CONCLUSION Baricitinib and Tofacitinib are both comparable in terms of effectiveness and safety in real world conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana González Mazarío
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain; Escuela de Doctorado, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir (UCV), Valencia, Spain
| | - Jorge Juan Fragío Gil
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain; Escuela de Doctorado, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir (UCV), Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
| | - José Ivorra Cortés
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Elena Grau García
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Luis González Puig
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - José Andrés Román Ivorra
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain; Escuela de Doctorado, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir (UCV), Valencia, Spain
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8
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Aletaha D, Kerschbaumer A, Kastrati K, Dejaco C, Dougados M, McInnes IB, Sattar N, Stamm TA, Takeuchi T, Trauner M, van der Heijde D, Voshaar M, Winthrop KL, Ravelli A, Betteridge N, Burmester GRR, Bijlsma JW, Bykerk V, Caporali R, Choy EH, Codreanu C, Combe B, Crow MK, de Wit M, Emery P, Fleischmann RM, Gabay C, Hetland ML, Hyrich KL, Iagnocco A, Isaacs JD, Kremer JM, Mariette X, Merkel PA, Mysler EF, Nash P, Nurmohamed MT, Pavelka K, Poor G, Rubbert-Roth A, Schulze-Koops H, Strangfeld A, Tanaka Y, Smolen JS. Consensus statement on blocking interleukin-6 receptor and interleukin-6 in inflammatory conditions: an update. Ann Rheum Dis 2022; 82:773-787. [PMID: 35953263 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2022-222784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeting interleukin (IL)-6 has become a major therapeutic strategy in the treatment of immune-mediated inflammatory disease. Interference with the IL-6 pathway can be directed at the specific receptor using anti-IL-6Rα antibodies or by directly inhibiting the IL-6 cytokine. This paper is an update of a previous consensus document, based on most recent evidence and expert opinion, that aims to inform on the medical use of interfering with the IL-6 pathway. METHODS A systematic literature research was performed that focused on IL-6-pathway inhibitors in inflammatory diseases. Evidence was put in context by a large group of international experts and patients in a subsequent consensus process. All were involved in formulating the consensus statements, and in the preparation of this document. RESULTS The consensus process covered relevant aspects of dosing and populations for different indications of IL-6 pathway inhibitors that are approved across the world, including rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular-course and systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, giant cell arteritis, Takayasu arteritis, adult-onset Still's disease, Castleman's disease, chimeric antigen receptor-T-cell-induced cytokine release syndrome, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and severe COVID-19. Also addressed were other clinical aspects of the use of IL-6 pathway inhibitors, including pretreatment screening, safety, contraindications and monitoring. CONCLUSIONS The document provides a comprehensive consensus on the use of IL-6 inhibition to treat inflammatory disorders to inform healthcare professionals (including researchers), patients, administrators and payers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Aletaha
- Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | | | - Kastriot Kastrati
- Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Christian Dejaco
- Rheumatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Rheumatology, Brunico Hospital, Brunico, Italy
| | - Maxime Dougados
- Rheumatology, Universite Paris Descartes Faculte de Medecine Site Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Iain B McInnes
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Naveed Sattar
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, Glasgow, UK
| | - Tanja A Stamm
- Section for Outcomes Research, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine Graduate School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Japan
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Désirée van der Heijde
- Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Rheumatology, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marieke Voshaar
- Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, Enschede, Netherlands and Stichting Tools Patient Empowerment, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin L Winthrop
- Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Angelo Ravelli
- UO Pediatria II-Reumatologia, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Johannes Wj Bijlsma
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vivian Bykerk
- Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Roberto Caporali
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, ASS G. Pini, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Ernest H Choy
- CREATE Centre, Section of Rheumatology, School of Medicine, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Catalin Codreanu
- Rheumatology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucuresti, Romania
| | - Bernard Combe
- Immunorhumatologie, CHU Lapeyronie, Montpellier, France
| | - Mary K Crow
- Mary Kirkland Center for Lupus Research, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Maarten de Wit
- Medical Humanities, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Duivendrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Emery
- University of Leeds, Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, NIHR Leeds Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, Leeds, UK
| | - Roy M Fleischmann
- Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Cem Gabay
- Division of Rheumatology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Merete Lund Hetland
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Kobenhavn, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Kobenhavn, Denmark
| | - Kimme L Hyrich
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Annamaria Iagnocco
- Scienze Cliniche e Biologiche, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - John D Isaacs
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Joel M Kremer
- Medicine Rheumatology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Xavier Mariette
- Rheumatology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,Center for Immunology of Viral Infections and Auto-immune Diseases, Université Paris-Sud, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Peter A Merkel
- Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eduardo F Mysler
- Organización Médica de Investigación SA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Peter Nash
- Griffith University School of Medicine, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Karel Pavelka
- Rheumatology Department, Charles University, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Gyula Poor
- National Institute of Rheumatology & Physiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Rubbert-Roth
- Division of Rheumatology, Kantonsspital Sankt Gallen, Sankt Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Hendrik Schulze-Koops
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Internal Medicine IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Munchen, Munchen, Germany
| | - Anja Strangfeld
- Forschungsbereich Epidemiologie, Deutsches Rheuma-Forschungszentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yoshiya Tanaka
- First Department of Internal Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Josef S Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
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The Impact of Traditional Chinese Medicine QingreHuoxue Treatment and the Combination of Methotrexate and Hydroxychloroquine on the Radiological Progression of Active Rheumatoid Arthritis: A 52-Week Follow-Up of a Randomized Controlled Clinical Study. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:5808400. [PMID: 35463097 PMCID: PMC9019417 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5808400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used successfully to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). QingreHuoxue treatment (QingreHuoxue decoction [QRHXD]/QingreHuoxue external preparation [QRHXEP]) is a Chinese medicine treatment for RA. To date, very few studies have compared the long-term effects of QRHXD with those of conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs on RA disease activity and radiological progression. QRHXD delayed the radiological progression and showed long-term clinical efficacy of RA. In clinical experiments, the clinical evidence of delaying the radiological progression of RA patients was obtained. A portion of the patients who participated in the “Traditional Chinese Medicine QingreHuoxue Treatment vs. the Combination of Methotrexate and Hydroxychloroquine for Active Rheumatoid Arthritis” study were followed up for 52 weeks, and intention-to-treat (ITT) and compliance protocol (PP) analyses were used to collect and compare the clinical indicators and imaging data between baseline and week 52. Two radiologists who were blind to treatment scored the images independently. Of the 468 subjects, 141 completed the 52-week follow-up. There were no significant differences among the three groups: the traditional Chinese medicine comprehensive treatment group, the Western medicine treatment group, and the integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatment group. There were no differences in the total Sharp score, joint space stenosis score, and joint erosion score at baseline or 52 weeks. In the comparison of the estimated annual radiographic progression (EARP) and the actual annual Sharp total score changes among the three groups, the actual changes were much lower than the EARP at baseline. The radiological progress in all three groups was well controlled. Results of the ITT and PP data sets showed that the disease activity score 28 level of the three groups at 52 weeks was significantly lower than that at baseline. During the 52-week treatment period, the clearance of heat and promotion of blood circulation controlled disease activity and delayed the radiological progress of active RA.
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Taylor PC, Alten R, Álvaro Gracia JM, Kaneko Y, Walls C, Quebe A, Jia B, Bello N, Terres JR, Fleischmann R. Achieving pain control in early rheumatoid arthritis with baricitinib monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate versus methotrexate monotherapy. RMD Open 2022; 8:rmdopen-2021-001994. [PMID: 35264432 PMCID: PMC8915362 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2021-001994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This post hoc analysis assessed speed, magnitude and maintenance of pain improvement in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) receiving baricitinib, baricitinib and methotrexate (MTX), or MTX over 1 year. Cumulative pain and quality of life benefits were also assessed. Methods Randomised, double-blind, phase 3 study RA-BEGIN (NCT01711359) compared baricitinib 4 mg (N=159), baricitinib 4 mg +MTX (N=215) and MTX (N=210) in patients with RA who had no or limited prior disease-modifying antirheumatic drug treatment. Pain was assessed on a 0–100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Proportion of patients with ≥30%, ≥50% and ≥70% pain improvement from baseline; ≤20 mm and ≤10 mm on the pain VAS; and time to achieve pain improvement thresholds were assessed over 52 weeks, as were Patient Global Assessment (PtGA) and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey Physical Component Score (SF-36 PCS) outcomes. Results Baricitinib monotherapy or combination with MTX provides greater (least square mean changes (LSM) from baseline −40 mm and −43 mm, respectively) and more rapid (median 12 and 8 weeks to ≥70% improvement, respectively) pain relief than MTX alone (LSM −31 mm, median 20 weeks to ≥70% improvement) over 52 weeks. Baricitinib, alone or combination, provides 9–10 additional weeks of limited to no pain, similar gain in achievable wellness measured through PtGA, and 5–7 additional weeks with change in SF-36 PCS ≥5 vs MTX over 1 year. Conclusions Patients treated with baricitinib reported significantly greater and more rapid pain relief, more weeks with limited to no pain, and clinically meaningful improvements in physical health than patients treated with MTX alone over 1 year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter C Taylor
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Rieke Alten
- Internal Medicine II, Rheumatology, SCHLOSSPARK-KLINIK, University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jose María Álvaro Gracia
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yuko Kaneko
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chad Walls
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Amanda Quebe
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Bochao Jia
- Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | | | | | - Roy Fleischmann
- Metroplex Clinical Research Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111592. [PMID: 34769021 PMCID: PMC8584240 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have great potential to differentiate into various types of cells, including but not limited to, adipocytes, chondrocytes and osteoblasts. In addition to their progenitor characteristics, MSCs hold unique immunomodulatory properties that provide new opportunities in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, and can serve as a promising tool in stem cell-based therapy. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder that deteriorates quality and function of the synovium membrane, resulting in chronic inflammation, pain and progressive cartilage and bone destruction. The mechanism of RA pathogenesis is associated with dysregulation of innate and adaptive immunity. Current conventional treatments by steroid drugs, antirheumatic drugs and biological agents are being applied in clinical practice. However, long-term use of these drugs causes side effects, and some RA patients may acquire resistance to these drugs. In this regard, recently investigated MSC-based therapy is considered as a promising approach in RA treatment. In this study, we review conventional and modern treatment approaches, such as MSC-based therapy through the understanding of the link between MSCs and the innate and adaptive immune systems. Moreover, we discuss recent achievements in preclinical and clinical studies as well as various strategies for the enhancement of MSC immunoregulatory properties.
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AYDIN TUFAN M, ERSÖZLÜ BOZKIRLI E, KART H, YÜCEL A. Effect of subcutaneous high-dose methotrexate treatment on the management of rheumatoid arthritis. CUKUROVA MEDICAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.17826/cumj.914892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Scott DL, Ibrahim F, Hill H, Tom B, Prothero L, Baggott RR, Bosworth A, Galloway JB, Georgopoulou S, Martin N, Neatrour I, Nikiphorou E, Sturt J, Wailoo A, Williams FMK, Williams R, Lempp H. Intensive therapy for moderate established rheumatoid arthritis: the TITRATE research programme. PROGRAMME GRANTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/pgfar09080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background
Rheumatoid arthritis is a major inflammatory disorder and causes substantial disability. Treatment goals span minimising disease activity, achieving remission and decreasing disability. In active rheumatoid arthritis, intensive management achieves these goals. As many patients with established rheumatoid arthritis have moderate disease activity, the TITRATE (Treatment Intensities and Targets in Rheumatoid Arthritis ThErapy) programme assessed the benefits of intensive management.
Objectives
To (1) define how to deliver intensive therapy in moderate established rheumatoid arthritis; (2) establish its clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in a trial; and (3) evaluate evidence supporting intensive management in observational studies and completed trials.
Design
Observational studies, secondary analyses of completed trials and systematic reviews assessed existing evidence about intensive management. Qualitative research, patient workshops and systematic reviews defined how to deliver it. The trial assessed its clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in moderate established rheumatoid arthritis.
Setting
Observational studies (in three London centres) involved 3167 patients. These were supplemented by secondary analyses of three previously completed trials (in centres across all English regions), involving 668 patients. Qualitative studies assessed expectations (nine patients in four London centres) and experiences of intensive management (15 patients in 10 centres across England). The main clinical trial enrolled 335 patients with diverse socioeconomic deprivation and ethnicity (in 39 centres across all English regions).
Participants
Patients with established moderately active rheumatoid arthritis receiving conventional disease-modifying drugs.
Interventions
Intensive management used combinations of conventional disease-modifying drugs, biologics (particularly tumour necrosis factor inhibitors) and depot steroid injections; nurses saw patients monthly, adjusted treatment and provided supportive person-centred psychoeducation. Control patients received standard care.
Main outcome measures
Disease Activity Score for 28 joints based on the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR)-categorised patients (active to remission). Remission (DAS28-ESR < 2.60) was the treatment target. Other outcomes included fatigue (measured on a 100-mm visual analogue scale), disability (as measured on the Health Assessment Questionnaire), harms and resource use for economic assessments.
Results
Evaluation of existing evidence for intensive rheumatoid arthritis management showed the following. First, in observational studies, DAS28-ESR scores decreased over 10–20 years, whereas remissions and treatment intensities increased. Second, in systematic reviews of published trials, all intensive management strategies increased remissions. Finally, patients with high disability scores had fewer remissions. Qualitative studies of rheumatoid arthritis patients, workshops and systematic reviews helped develop an intensive management pathway. A 2-day training session for rheumatology practitioners explained its use, including motivational interviewing techniques and patient handbooks. The trial screened 459 patients and randomised 335 patients (168 patients received intensive management and 167 patients received standard care). A total of 303 patients provided 12-month outcome data. Intention-to-treat analysis showed intensive management increased DAS28-ESR 12-month remissions, compared with standard care (32% vs. 18%, odds ratio 2.17, 95% confidence interval 1.28 to 3.68; p = 0.004), and reduced fatigue [mean difference –18, 95% confidence interval –24 to –11 (scale 0–100); p < 0.001]. Disability (as measured on the Health Assessment Questionnaire) decreased when intensive management patients achieved remission (difference –0.40, 95% confidence interval –0.57 to –0.22) and these differences were considered clinically relevant. However, in all intensive management patients reductions in the Health Assessment Questionnaire scores were less marked (difference –0.1, 95% confidence interval –0.2 to 0.0). The numbers of serious adverse events (intensive management n = 15 vs. standard care n = 11) and other adverse events (intensive management n = 114 vs. standard care n = 151) were similar. Economic analysis showed that the base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was £43,972 from NHS and Personal Social Services cost perspectives. The probability of meeting a willingness-to-pay threshold of £30,000 was 17%. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio decreased to £29,363 after including patients’ personal costs and lost working time, corresponding to a 50% probability that intensive management is cost-effective at English willingness-to-pay thresholds. Analysing trial baseline predictors showed that remission predictors comprised baseline DAS28-ESR, disability scores and body mass index. A 6-month extension study (involving 95 intensive management patients) showed fewer remissions by 18 months, although more sustained remissions were more likley to persist. Qualitative research in trial completers showed that intensive management was acceptable and treatment support from specialist nurses was beneficial.
Limitations
The main limitations comprised (1) using single time point remissions rather than sustained responses, (2) uncertainty about benefits of different aspects of intensive management and differences in its delivery across centres, (3) doubts about optimal treatment of patients unresponsive to intensive management and (4) the lack of formal international definitions of ‘intensive management’.
Conclusion
The benefits of intensive management need to be set against its additional costs. These were relatively high. Not all patients benefited. Patients with high pretreatment physical disability or who were substantially overweight usually did not achieve remission.
Future work
Further research should (1) identify the most effective components of the intervention, (2) consider its most cost-effective delivery and (3) identify alternative strategies for patients not responding to intensive management.
Trial registration
Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN70160382.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full in Programme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 9, No. 8. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Scott
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Fowzia Ibrahim
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Harry Hill
- ScHARR Health Economics and Decision Science, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Brian Tom
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Louise Prothero
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Rhiannon R Baggott
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | - James B Galloway
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Sofia Georgopoulou
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Naomi Martin
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Isabel Neatrour
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Elena Nikiphorou
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Jackie Sturt
- Department of Adult Nursing, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Allan Wailoo
- ScHARR Health Economics and Decision Science, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Frances MK Williams
- Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, School of Life Course Sciences, King’s College London, St Thomas’ Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ruth Williams
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Heidi Lempp
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
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Amin Shipa MR, Yeoh SA, Embleton-Thirsk A, Mukerjee D, Ehrenstein MR. The synergistic efficacy of hydroxychloroquine with methotrexate is accompanied by increased erythrocyte mean corpuscular volume. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:787-793. [PMID: 33944915 PMCID: PMC8824424 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether concomitant hydroxychloroquine modulates the increase in erythrocyte mean corpuscular volume (MCV) caused by methotrexate therapy, and whether this is associated with improved clinical response in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS A retrospective observational analysis was conducted on two independent hospital datasets of biologic-naïve, early-RA patients who started oral methotrexate. Baseline characteristics, DAS28-ESR and monthly MCV after starting methotrexate were obtained. Conventional and machine-learning statistical approaches were applied to the discovery cohort (Cohort-1, 655 patients) and results validated using Cohort 2 (225 patients). RESULTS Hydroxychloroquine therapy with methotrexate was associated with a two-fold increase in the likelihood of response defined in this study as clinical remission or low disease activity at 6 months (p < 0.001). The improved clinical outcome of combination hydroxychloroquine and methotrexate therapy was associated with an accelerated rise in MCV from 2 months after commencing therapy. The increase in MCV at three months was equivalent to the contemporaneous reduction in the disease activity score (DAS28-ESR) in predicting clinical response at 6 months. Using latent class mixed modelling, five trajectories of MCV change over six months from baseline were identified. The odds ratio of response to treatment was 16.2 (95% CI 5.7 to 46.4, <ip > <0.001) in those receiving combination therapy classified within the MCV elevation >5fL class, which contained the most patients, compared to methotrexate alone. CONCLUSION Our data provides mechanistic insight into the synergistic clinical benefit of concomitant hydroxychloroquine with methotrexate, boosting the rise in MCV which could serve as a companion biomarker of treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ruhu Amin Shipa
- Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK. Rayne Institute, 5 University St, Bloomsbury, London WC1E 6JF
| | - Su-Ann Yeoh
- Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK. Rayne Institute, 5 University St, Bloomsbury, London WC1E 6JF
| | - Andrew Embleton-Thirsk
- Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit, University College London, Institute of Clinical Trials & Methodology, Faculty of Population Health Sciences. 90 High Holborn, Holborn, London WC1V 6LJ
| | - Dev Mukerjee
- Department of Rheumatology, North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK. Sterling Way, London N18 1QX
| | - Michael R Ehrenstein
- Centre for Rheumatology, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK. Rayne Institute, 5 University St, Bloomsbury, London WC1E 6JF
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Stouten V, Westhovens R, Pazmino S, De Cock D, Van der Elst K, Joly J, Bertrand D, Verschueren P. Five-year treat-to-target outcomes after methotrexate induction therapy with or without other csDMARDs and temporary glucocorticoids for rheumatoid arthritis in the CareRA trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 80:965-973. [PMID: 33811036 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-219825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare outcomes of different treatment schedules from the care in early rheumatoid arthritis (CareRA) trial over 5 years. METHODS Patients with RA completing the 2-year CareRA randomised controlled trial were eligible for the 3-year observational CareRA-plus study. 5-year outcomes after randomisation to initial methotrexate (MTX) monotherapy with glucocorticoid bridging (COBRA-Slim) were compared with MTX step-up without glucocorticoids or conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) combinations with glucocorticoid bridging, per prognostic patient group. Disease activity (Disease Activity Score based on 28 joints calculated with C reactive protein (DAS28-CRP)) and functionality (Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ)) were compared between treatment arms using longitudinal models; safety and drug use were detailed. RESULTS Of 322 eligible patients, 252 (78%) entered CareRA-plus, of which 203 (81%) completed the study. Treatments for high-risk patients resulted in comparable DAS28-CRP (p=0.539) and HAQ scores over 5 years (p=0.374). Low-risk patients starting COBRA-Slim had lower DAS28-CRP (p<0.001) and HAQ scores (p=0.041) than those starting only on MTX. At study completion, 114/203 (56%) patients never had their original DMARD therapy intensified, with comparable rates between all treatments. Safety was comparable between treatments in high-risk patients. In low-risk patients, there were 18 adverse events in 10 COBRA-Slim and 36 in 17 patients treated with initial MTX monotherapy (p=0.048). Over 5 years, 22% of patients initiated biologics, 25% took glucocorticoids for >3 months and 17% for >6 months outside the bridging period. CONCLUSIONS All intensive treatments with glucocorticoids bridging demonstrated excellent 5 year outcomes. Initiating COBRA-Slim was comparably effective as more complex treatments for high-risk patients with early RA and more effective than initial MTX monotherapy for low-risk patients with limited need for biologics and chronic glucocorticoid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle Stouten
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Johan Joly
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium .,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Sinapic Acid Loaded Secondary Growth of SiO2–Au Core Shell Nanostructure as an Effective Antiarthritic Agent to Treat Collagen-Induced Arthritis. J CLUST SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10876-020-01973-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Hetland ML, Haavardsholm EA, Rudin A, Nordström D, Nurmohamed M, Gudbjornsson B, Lampa J, Hørslev-Petersen K, Uhlig T, Grondal G, Østergaard M, Heiberg MS, Twisk J, Lend K, Krabbe S, Hyldstrup LH, Lindqvist J, Hultgård Ekwall AK, Grøn KL, Kapetanovic M, Faustini F, Tuompo R, Lorenzen T, Cagnotto G, Baecklund E, Hendricks O, Vedder D, Sokka-Isler T, Husmark T, Ljoså MKA, Brodin E, Ellingsen T, Söderbergh A, Rizk M, Olsson ÅR, Larsson P, Uhrenholt L, Just SA, Stevens DJ, Laurberg TB, Bakland G, Olsen IC, van Vollenhoven R. Active conventional treatment and three different biological treatments in early rheumatoid arthritis: phase IV investigator initiated, randomised, observer blinded clinical trial. BMJ 2020; 371:m4328. [PMID: 33268527 PMCID: PMC7708829 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.m4328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate and compare benefits and harms of three biological treatments with different modes of action versus active conventional treatment in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. DESIGN Investigator initiated, randomised, open label, blinded assessor, multiarm, phase IV study. SETTING Twenty nine rheumatology departments in Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, and Iceland between 2012 and 2018. PARTICIPANTS Patients aged 18 years and older with treatment naive rheumatoid arthritis, symptom duration less than 24 months, moderate to severe disease activity, and rheumatoid factor or anti-citrullinated protein antibody positivity, or increased C reactive protein. INTERVENTIONS Randomised 1:1:1:1, stratified by country, sex, and anti-citrullinated protein antibody status. All participants started methotrexate combined with (a) active conventional treatment (either prednisolone tapered to 5 mg/day, or sulfasalazine combined with hydroxychloroquine and intra-articular corticosteroids), (b) certolizumab pegol, (c) abatacept, or (d) tocilizumab. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was adjusted clinical disease activity index remission (CDAI≤2.8) at 24 weeks with active conventional treatment as the reference. Key secondary outcomes and analyses included CDAI remission at 12 weeks and over time, other remission criteria, a non-inferiority analysis, and harms. RESULTS 812 patients underwent randomisation. The mean age was 54.3 years (standard deviation 14.7) and 68.8% were women. Baseline disease activity score of 28 joints was 5.0 (standard deviation 1.1). Adjusted 24 week CDAI remission rates were 42.7% (95% confidence interval 36.1% to 49.3%) for active conventional treatment, 46.5% (39.9% to 53.1%) for certolizumab pegol, 52.0% (45.5% to 58.6%) for abatacept, and 42.1% (35.3% to 48.8%) for tocilizumab. Corresponding absolute differences were 3.9% (95% confidence interval -5.5% to 13.2%) for certolizumab pegol, 9.4% (0.1% to 18.7%) for abatacept, and -0.6% (-10.1% to 8.9%) for tocilizumab. Key secondary outcomes showed no major differences among the four treatments. Differences in CDAI remission rates for active conventional treatment versus certolizumab pegol and tocilizumab, but not abatacept, remained within the prespecified non-inferiority margin of 15% (per protocol population). The total number of serious adverse events was 13 (percentage of patients who experienced at least one event 5.6%) for active conventional treatment, 20 (8.4%) for certolizumab pegol, 10 (4.9%) for abatacept, and 10 (4.9%) for tocilizumab. Eleven patients treated with abatacept stopped treatment early compared with 20-23 patients in the other arms. CONCLUSIONS All four treatments achieved high remission rates. Higher CDAI remission rate was observed for abatacept versus active conventional treatment, but not for certolizumab pegol or tocilizumab versus active conventional treatment. Other remission rates were similar across treatments. Non-inferiority analysis indicated that active conventional treatment was non-inferior to certolizumab pegol and tocilizumab, but not to abatacept. The results highlight the efficacy and safety of active conventional treatment based on methotrexate combined with corticosteroids, with nominally better results for abatacept, in treatment naive early rheumatoid arthritis. TRIAL REGISTRATION EudraCT2011-004720-35, NCT01491815.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merete Lund Hetland
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE) and DANBIO, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Anna Rudin
- Rheumatology Clinic, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy of University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Dan Nordström
- Division of Rheumatology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Michael Nurmohamed
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Amsterdam Rheumatology Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bjorn Gudbjornsson
- Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Jon Lampa
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM), Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kim Hørslev-Petersen
- Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Sønderborg, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Till Uhlig
- Department of Rheumatology, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gerdur Grondal
- Landspitali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Mikkel Østergaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE) and DANBIO, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marte S Heiberg
- Department of Rheumatology, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jos Twisk
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kristina Lend
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM), Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Simon Krabbe
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE) and DANBIO, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise Hejl Hyldstrup
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE) and DANBIO, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Joakim Lindqvist
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM), Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna-Karin Hultgård Ekwall
- Rheumatology Clinic, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy of University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kathrine Lederballe Grøn
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research (COPECARE) and DANBIO, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Meliha Kapetanovic
- Section of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Skåne University Hospital, Lund and Malmö, Sweden
| | - Francesca Faustini
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM), Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Riitta Tuompo
- Division of Rheumatology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tove Lorenzen
- Department of Rheumatology, Silkeborg University Clinic, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Giovanni Cagnotto
- Department of Rheumatology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
- Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Eva Baecklund
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Oliver Hendricks
- Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Sønderborg, Denmark
| | - Daisy Vedder
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Netherlands
| | - Tuulikki Sokka-Isler
- Department of Medicine and University of Eastern Finland, Jyväskylä Central Hospital, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Tomas Husmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Falu Hospital, Falun, Sweden
| | | | - Eli Brodin
- Department of Rheumatology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Torkell Ellingsen
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Odense University Hospital, Southern University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Annika Söderbergh
- Department of Rheumatology, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Milad Rizk
- Rheumatology Clinic, Västmanlands Hospital Västerås, Sweden
| | | | - Per Larsson
- Academic Specialist Center, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Line Uhrenholt
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Søren Andreas Just
- Section of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Svendborg Hospital OUH, Denmark
| | - David John Stevens
- Department of Rheumatology, St Olav's Hospital, University Hospital of Trondheim, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Gunnstein Bakland
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Inge C Olsen
- Department of Research Support for Clinical Trials, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Ronald van Vollenhoven
- Department of Rheumatology and Amsterdam Rheumatology Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM), Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Jagpal A, Singh JA. Treatment Guidelines in Rheumatoid Arthritis—Optimizing the Best of Both Worlds. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-020-00163-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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19
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Scott D, Ibrahim F, Hill H, Tom B, Prothero L, Baggott RR, Bosworth A, Galloway JB, Georgopoulou S, Martin N, Neatrour I, Nikiphorou E, Sturt J, Wailoo A, Williams FMK, Williams R, Lempp H. The clinical effectiveness of intensive management in moderate established rheumatoid arthritis: The titrate trial. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2020; 50:1182-1190. [PMID: 32931984 PMCID: PMC7390769 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2020.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many trials have shown that intensive management is effective in patients with early active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). But its benefits are unproven for the large number of RA patients seen in routine care who have established, moderately active RA and are already taking conventional synthetic disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (csDMARDs). The TITRATE trial studied whether these patients also benefit from intensive management and, in particular, achieve more remissions. METHODS A 12-month multicentre individually randomised trial compared standard care with monthly intensive management appointments which was delivered by specially trained healthcare professionals and incorporated monthly clinical assessments, medication titration and psychosocial support. The primary outcome was 12-month remission assessed using the Disease Activity Score for 28 joints using ESR (DAS28-ESR). Secondary outcomes included fatigue, disability, harms and healthcare costs. Intention-to-treat multivariable logistic- and linear regression analyses compared treatment arms with multiple imputation used for missing data. RESULTS 459 patients were screened and 335 were randomised (168 intensive management; 167 standard care); 303 (90%) patients provided 12-month outcomes. Intensive management increased DAS28-ESR 12-month remissions compared to standard care (32% vs 18%, p = 0.004). Intensive management also significantly increased remissions using a range of alternative remission criteria and increased patients with DAS28-ESR low disease activity scores. (48% vs 32%, p = 0.005). In addition it substantially reduced fatigue (mean difference -18; 95% CI: -24, -11, p<0.001). There was no evidence that serious adverse events (intensive management =15 vs standard care =11) or other adverse events (114 vs 151) significantly increase with intensive management. INTERPRETATION The trial shows that intensive management incorporating psychosocial support delivered by specially trained healthcare professions is effective in moderately active established RA. More patients achieve remissions, there were greater improvements in fatigue, and there were no more harms.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Scott
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Fowzia Ibrahim
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Harry Hill
- ScHARR Health Economics and Decision Science, The University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA, United Kingdom
| | - Brian Tom
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Institute of Public Health, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 0SR, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Prothero
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Rhiannon R Baggott
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Ailsa Bosworth
- National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS), Switchback Office Park, Gardner Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 7RJ, United Kingdom
| | - James B Galloway
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Sofia Georgopoulou
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Naomi Martin
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel Neatrour
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Nikiphorou
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jackie Sturt
- Department Of Adult Nursing, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, James Clerk Maxwell Building, 57 Waterloo Road, London SE1 8WA, United Kingdom
| | - Allan Wailoo
- ScHARR Health Economics and Decision Science, The University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA, United Kingdom
| | - Frances M K Williams
- Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology, School of Life Course Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Williams
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
| | - Heidi Lempp
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, United Kingdom
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20
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Cruz BH, Garnica IU, Parera RS, Romero ER, Gutiérrez JC, Sánchez AG, Escalera CR, Sarabia FN. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drug prescription patterns in adult rheumatoid arthritis patients in routine clinical practice in Spain. Eur J Rheumatol 2020; 7:eurjrheum.2020.19053. [PMID: 32910753 PMCID: PMC7574759 DOI: 10.5152/eurjrheum.2020.19053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) patterns in routine clinical practice in adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and to ascertain the reasons for methotrexate (MTX) discontinuation. METHODS A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from March to October 2014 at the Rheumatology Units of seven hospitals in Spain. In a single visit, the treating rheumatologist completed an online case report form. This report contained sociodemographic and RA variables. This study was conducted in accordance with Good Clinical Practice and local and national research legislations. RESULTS A total of 301 patients (71% women) with a mean age of 56.7±14.0 years and disease duration of 3.6±1.5 years were examined. The patients had RA with moderate disease activity, at least one poor prognostic factor, and comorbidities. The mean time between RA diagnosis and prescription of the first conventional synthetic DMARD (csDMARD) was 2.4±6.0 months. A total of 295 patients (98%) started the first csDMARD on monotherapy. MTX was the most-prescribed first-line drug (n=233, 79%). The mean treatment time of the first-line csDMARD was 27.0±19.4 months. Of these patients, 98% progressed to a second-line csDMARD; 118 patients were changed to another DMARD, mainly due to inefficacy (51, 37%), adverse events (AEs, 37, 27%), or intolerance (18, 13%). The use of MTX as second-line therapy reduced from 79% to 51%. At the time of the study, 200 patients (66%) received a csDMARD as monotherapy and 45 (15%) a combination of ≥2 csDMARDs. Fifty-five (18%) patients were being treated with a biological drug in monotherapy (16, 29%) or in a combination with a csDMARD (39, 71%), mainly MTX, 147 patients (57%) received steroids. Biological DMARD were prescribed as the second line for 42% of patients and 51% of patients received the third-line therapy or beyond. The rate of AEs that motivated a change in the csDMARD was 34%. CONCLUSION MTX was the most-used csDMARD as first and second-line therapy together with corticosteroids. The combination of two or more csDMARDs as first-line treatment was very infrequent. MTX toxicity and intolerance were higher and more significant than inefficacy but progressively decreased with use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Esteban Rubio Romero
- Department of Rheumatology, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain
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Deng D, Zhou J, Li M, Li S, Tian L, Zou J, Wang T, Wu J, Zeng F, Yang J. Leflunomide monotherapy versus combination therapy with conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs for rheumatoid arthritis: a retrospective study. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12339. [PMID: 32704073 PMCID: PMC7378063 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69309-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Leflunomide (LEF) is a conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. However, there are few reports on the comparison of efficacy between LEF alone and combined with other csDMARDs. Here, the efficacy and safety of LEF monotherapy (88) and combination (361) therapy groups were evaluated. After 3 months, there were no significant differences in 28-joint disease activity score (DAS28), health assessment questionnaire (HAQ), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) between the monotherapy and combination groups (all P > 0.05). According to the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) response criteria, it was found that the DAS28 response rates were similar in the two groups (P > 0.05). Besides, the two groups presented similar safety profiles. Subgroup analysis found that there was no difference in efficacy among the three combined therapies (LEF + methotrexate (MTX), LEF + hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), and LEF + MTX + HCQ) and LEF monotherapy. Furthermore, when the dose of LEF was less than 40 mg/day, no significant difference in efficacy was observed between low and high doses. Overall, these results indicated that low dose LEF monotherapy was not inferior to the combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daihua Deng
- Department of Rheumatology, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Clinical Research Center, Dazhou Central Hospital, No. 56 Nanyuemiao Street, Tongchuan District, Dazhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Siyin Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Lan Tian
- Department of Rheumatology, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinmei Zou
- Department of Rheumatology, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, Dazhou Central Hospital, Dazhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jianhong Wu
- Department of Rheumatology, Dazhou Central Hospital, Dazhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Fanxin Zeng
- Department of Clinical Research Center, Dazhou Central Hospital, No. 56 Nanyuemiao Street, Tongchuan District, Dazhou, Sichuan, China.
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Rheumatology, Mianyang Central Hospital, Mianyang, Sichuan, China.
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Hua L, Du H, Ying M, Wu H, Fan J, Shi X. Efficacy and safety of low-dose glucocorticoids combined with methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of early rheumatoid arthritis: A single-center, randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e20824. [PMID: 32629668 PMCID: PMC7337402 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000020824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glucocorticoids (GCs), especially low-dose GCs, are commonly prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), although the risk/benefit ratio is controversial. A randomized, double-blind clinical trial was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-dose oral GCs combined with methotrexate (MTX) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in early RA (ERA). METHODS Eighty untreated ERA patients were randomized into the trial (GCs + MTX + HCQ) and control (placebo + MTX + HCQ) groups, for 1-year treatment. Therapeutic evaluation indices were American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20 of ACR, disease activity score (DAS) 28- erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), visual analog scale scores, joint function, health assessment questionnaire-disability index score, morning stiffness duration, C-reaction protein and ESR. The clinical indicators were evaluated pre-treatment and at 1st, 3th, 6th and 12th month of treatment. The MRI data of single joint (ie, the most swollen joint) for each patient were acquired with a revised OMERACT RAMRIS Scoring System before and after treatment. The correlation analysis was adopted to confirm whether the efficacy of GC treatment is related to the time of RA onset. The side effects (eg, gastrointestinal reactions, liver dysfunction, upper respiratory tract infection, leukocyte reduction) were also monitored. RESULTS At 1st month, 55% and 20% cases in the experimental and control groups achieved ACR20 response, respectively, indicating a significant difference (χ = 16.157, P < .001). This trend continued until 6th month. At 12th month, the number of patients achieved ACR20 response was similar in both groups. At 1st to 6th month, DAS28- ESR scores in the experimental group were significantly lower than control values (all p < .05). The experimental group showed improved inflammation, quality of life and radiological symptoms. Bone erosion remained unchanged in the experimental group, while worsening in control group. Correlation coefficients between RA duration and DAS28-ESR score were 0.496, 0.464, 0.509, and 0.550 at 1st, 3th, 6th, and 12th month, respectively. No differences were found in adverse events between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS Low-dose GCs combined with MTX and HCQ significantly achieves disease remission indexed by ACR20 and DAS28-ESR, and improves clinical and radiological outcomes in ERA patients at the early stage, with superiority over placebo + MTX + HCQ, without enhancing adverse reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Hua
- Department of Rheumatology
| | | | - Mingliang Ying
- Department of Radiology, Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital, Jinhua Zhejiang, China
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Zavodovsky BV, Sivordova LE, Polyakova YV, Akhverdyan YR, Papichev EV. [Assessment of the safety, tolerability and effectiveness of first Russian generic aceclofenac in patients with undifferentiated peripheral inflammatory arthritis]. TERAPEVT ARKH 2020; 92:61-68. [PMID: 32598777 DOI: 10.26442/00403660.2020.05.000589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of the drug in patients with undifferentiated peripheral inflammatory arthritis (UPIA). MATERIALS AND METHODS We observed 60 patients (39 women and 21 men) met G. Hazlewood et al., UPIA criteria, 2011. Patients were divided into 3 groups: with monoarthritis, oligoarthritis and polyarthritis. They took aceclofenac 100 mg twice day for 3 weeks. RESULTS We noted significant decreasing in pain level according to visual analogue scale: in patients with monoarthritis by 69.3 mm (p0.001); in oligoarthritis group by 47.5 mm (p0.001), in patients with polyarthritis by 30 mm (p0.001). The life quality by the EQ-5D-5L index was improved too in all groups from 0.616 to 0.829 (p0.001). The satisfaction with the therapy was: in monoarthritis patients (80% of patients and 93% of doctors noted good results), in oligoarthritis group (53% and 39% accordingly) and polyarthritis (74% and 64% respectively). We suppose the difference was due to the fact that mono- and oligoarthritis patients suffered from initial forms of seronegative spondylarthropathy, in which the effectiveness of NSAIDs is traditionally higher; polyarthritis patients probably had debut of rheumatoid arthritis. Adverse events of therapy were mild. We noted gastrointestinal tract symptoms (dyspepsia) and increased ALT in 10 patients and increased blood pressure in 1 patient. The symptoms did not require discontinuation of therapy. Сonclusion. Post-registration observational study of first Russian generic aceclofenac (Alental, Vertex, Russia) was conducted. In UPIA patients aceclofenac therapy was most effective in mono- and oligoarthritis patients. The first Russian generic aceclofenac (Alental, Vertex, Russia) has good efficacy, tolerability and safety and can be recommended for arthritis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- B V Zavodovsky
- Zborovsky Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
| | - L E Sivordova
- Zborovsky Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
| | - Y V Polyakova
- Zborovsky Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
| | - Y R Akhverdyan
- Zborovsky Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
| | - E V Papichev
- Zborovsky Research Institute of Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
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Stouten V, Westhovens R, Pazmino S, De Cock D, Van der Elst K, Joly J, Verschueren P. Effectiveness of different combinations of DMARDs and glucocorticoid bridging in early rheumatoid arthritis: two-year results of CareRA. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 58:2284-2294. [PMID: 31236568 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate whether MTX should be combined with an additional DMARD and bridging glucocorticoids as initial treatment for patients with early RA to induce an effective long-term response. METHODS The Care in early RA study is a two-year investigator-initiated pragmatic multicentre randomized trial. Early RA patients, naïve to DMARDs and glucocorticoids, were stratified based on prognostic factors. High-risk patients were randomized to COBRA-Classic (n = 98): MTX, sulfasalazine, prednisone step-down from 60 mg; COBRA-Slim (n = 98): MTX, prednisone step-down from 30 mg; or COBRA-Avant-Garde (n = 93): MTX, leflunomide, prednisone step-down from 30 mg. Low-risk patients were randomized to COBRA-Slim (n = 43); or Tight Step Up (TSU) (n = 47): MTX without prednisone. Clinical/radiological outcomes at year 2, sustainability of response, safety and treatment adaptations were assessed. RESULTS In the high-risk group 71/98 (72%) patients achieved a DAS28-CRP < 2.6 with COBRA-Slim compared with 64/98 (65%) with COBRA-Classic and 69/93 (74%) with COBRA-Avant-Garde (P = 1.00). Other clinical/radiological outcomes and sustainability of response were similar. COBRA-Slim treatment resulted in less therapy-related adverse events compared with COBRA-Classic (P = 0.02) or COBRA-Avant-Garde (P = 0.005). In the low-risk group, 29/43 (67%) patients on COBRA-Slim and 34/47 (72%) on TSU achieved a DAS28-CRP < 2.6 (P = 1.00). On COBRA-Slim, low-risk patients had lower longitudinal DAS28-CRP scores over 2 years, a lower need for glucocorticoid injections and a comparable safety profile compared with TSU. CONCLUSION All regimens combining DMARDs with glucocorticoids were effective for patients with early RA up to 2 years. The COBRA-Slim regimen, MTX monotherapy with glucocorticoid bridging, provided the best balance between efficacy and safety, irrespective of patients' prognosis. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, http://www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01172639.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle Stouten
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristien Van der Elst
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Joly
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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25
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Pazmino S, Boonen A, Stouten V, De Cock D, Joly J, Van der Elst K, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Two-year cost-effectiveness of different COBRA-like intensive remission induction schemes in early rheumatoid arthritis: a piggyback study on the pragmatic randomised controlled CareRA trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:556-565. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-216874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
ObjectivesTo evaluate the cost-effectiveness of treat-to-target strategies among recently diagnosed patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using methotrexate (MTX) and a step-down glucocorticoid (GC) scheme (COBRA Slim) compared with (1) this combination with either sulphasalazine (COBRA Classic) or leflunomide (COBRA Avant-Garde) in high-risk patients and (2) MTX without GCs (Tight-Step-Up, TSU) in low-risk patients.MethodsThe incremental cost-utility was calculated from a healthcare perspective in the intention-to-treat population (n=379) of the 2-year open-label pragmatic randomised controlled Care in early RA trial. Healthcare costs were collected prospectively through electronic trial records. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated using mapping algorithms for EuroQoL-5 Dimension. Multiple imputation was used to handle missing data and bootstrapping to calculate CIs. Robustness was tested with biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs at biosimilar prices.ResultsIn the high-risk group, Classic (∆k€1.464, 95% CI −0.198 to 3.127) and Avant-Garde (∆k€0.636, 95% CI −0.987 to 2.258) were more expensive compared with Slim and QALYs were slightly worse for Classic (∆−0.002, 95% CI −0.086 to 0.082) and Avant-Garde (∆−0.009, 95% CI −0.102 to 0.084). This resulted in the domination of Classic and Avant-Garde by Slim. In the low-risk group, Slim was cheaper (∆k€−0.617, 95% CI −2.799 to 1.566) and QALYs were higher (∆0.141, 95% CI 0.008 to 0.274) compared with TSU, indicating Slim dominated. Results were robust against the price of biosimilars.ConclusionsThe combination of MTX with a GC bridging scheme is less expensive with comparable health utility than more intensive step-down combination strategies or a conventional step-up approach 2 years after initial treatment.Trial registration numberNCT01172639.
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Freier D, Strehl C, Buttgereit F. [Oral glucocorticoids : Therapeutic use and treatment monitoring in inflammatory rheumatic diseases]. Hautarzt 2020; 71:139-153. [PMID: 31980858 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-020-04543-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GC) have been proven drug substances in rheumatology for more than 70 years. They act very rapidly in high doses through membrane stabilizing effects. Genomic therapeutic effects of GC even in very low doses are mainly due to inhibition of the functions of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB), which promotes the synthesis of proinflammatory mediators, adhesion molecules and other regulatory proteins. Indications for the use of GC in high doses in rheumatology are always given when a life-threatening, dangerous or treatment-resistant situation is involved. Lower doses of GC, usually administered orally, are particularly used in rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis and collagenosis. In clinical practice the general principle is to use the smallest possible effective dose of GC for the shortest possible time in order to achieve the therapeutic effect of GC without running the risk of unacceptably severe side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Freier
- Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - C Strehl
- Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - F Buttgereit
- Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Rheumatologie und Klinische Immunologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland
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Michielsens CAJ, Boers N, den Broeder N, Wenink MH, van der Maas A, Mahler EAM, Mulder MLM, van der Heijde D, van den Hoogen FHJ, Verhoef LM, den Broeder AA. Dose reduction and withdrawal strategy for TNF-inhibitors in psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis: design of a pragmatic open-label, randomised, non-inferiority trial. Trials 2020; 21:90. [PMID: 31941544 PMCID: PMC6964104 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-019-4000-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) are effective in the treatment of patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA), including psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). However, these drugs come with some disadvantages such as adverse events, practical burden for patients and high costs. Dose optimisation of TNFi after patients have reached low disease activity (LDA) has been shown feasible and safe in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, data on TNFi dose optimisation in PsA and axSpA are scarce, especially pragmatic, randomised strategy studies. METHODS We developed an investigator-driven, pragmatic, open-label, randomised, controlled, non-inferiority trial (DRESS-PS) to compare the effects of a disease activity-guided treat-to-target strategy with or without a tapering attempt in patients with SpA (PsA and axSpA combined), ≥ 16 years of age, who are being treated with TNFi, and have had at least 6 months of low disease activity. The primary outcome is the percentage of patients in LDA after 12 months of follow up. Patients are assessed at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of follow up. Bayesian power analyses with a weakened prior based on a similar study performed in RA resulted in a sample size of 95 patients in total. DISCUSSION More knowledge on disease activity-guided treatment algorithms would contribute to better treatment choices and cost savings and potentially decrease the risk of side effects. In this article we elucidate some of our design choices on TNFi dose optimisation and its clinical and methodological consequences. TRIAL REGISTRATION Dutch Trial Register, NL6771. Registered on 27 November 2018 (CMO NL66181.091.18, 23 October 2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia A J Michielsens
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. .,Department of Rheumatic Diseases, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Nadine Boers
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nathan den Broeder
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mark H Wenink
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Aatke van der Maas
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Elien A M Mahler
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Michelle L M Mulder
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatic Diseases, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Frank H J van den Hoogen
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatic Diseases, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lise M Verhoef
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alfons A den Broeder
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatic Diseases, Radboud Institute of Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Van der Elst K, Verschueren P, Stouten V, Pazmino S, De Groef A, De Cock D, Joly J, Moons P, Westhovens R. Patient‐Reported Outcome Data From an Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Trial: Opportunities for Broadening the Scope of Treating to Target. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2019; 71:1566-1575. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.23900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- University Hospitals LeuvenKU Leuven, Catholic University of Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | | | - Sofia Pazmino
- KU Leuven, Catholic University of Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | - An De Groef
- KU Leuven, Catholic University of Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | | | - Johan Joly
- University Hospitals Leuven Leuven Belgium
| | - Philip Moons
- Catholic University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden, and University of Cape Town Cape Town South Africa
| | - René Westhovens
- University Hospitals LeuvenKU Leuven, Catholic University of Leuven Leuven Belgium
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Schapink L, van den Ende CHM, Gevers LAHA, van Ede AE, den Broeder AA. The effects of methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine combination therapy vs methotrexate monotherapy in early rheumatoid arthritis patients. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2019; 58:131-134. [PMID: 30189019 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To investigate the added value of MTX-HCQ combination therapy (CTG) in early RA in a controlled cohort study. MTX monotherapy (MTG) is recommended as (part of) first choice treatment but no head-to-head comparisons are available comparing MTX-HCQ CTG with MTG. Methods RA patients from the Sint Maartenskliniek and Radboudumc Nijmegen who started MTX with or without concomitant HCQ from April 2010 to October 2015 were included. The primary outcome was the between-group ΔDAS28-CRP at 6 months, and secondary outcomes were ΔDAS28-CRP at 12 months, EULAR response at 6 and 12 months, and treatment intensification. Regression modelling was used to correct for confounding. Results We included 325 patients, with only small between-group differences at baseline. The DAS28-CRP improvement at 6 months was larger in the CTG (Δ = 0.38 (CI: 0.01, 0.76)), and the difference between groups in DAS28-CRP improvement was smaller at 12 months (Δ = 0.22 points (CI:-0.19, -0.62)). At 6 months, a higher percentage of patients had a good EULAR response in the CTG (Δ = 15% (CI: 2.7%, 27%)). This difference was reduced at 12 months (Δ = 6% (CI -6.4%, 19%)). Treatment intensification with conventional synthetic DMARDs was more likely in the MTG (Δ = 31% (CI: -43%, 19%)). The proportion of patients starting biologic DMARD treatment during the observation period was comparable (Δ = 2% (CI: -8%, 12%)). Discussion In contrast to indirect comparison review data, MTX-HCQ seems somewhat more effective after 6 months than MTX monotherapy in early RA patients. After 12 months, we observed no significant differences between the two strategies, probably due to treat-to-target efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Schapink
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelia H M van den Ende
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Alfons A den Broeder
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Chen X, Zhu X, Ma L, Lin A, Gong Y, Yuan G, Liu J. A core-shell structure QRu-PLGA-RES-DS NP nanocomposite with photothermal response-induced M2 macrophage polarization for rheumatoid arthritis therapy. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:18209-18223. [PMID: 31560010 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr05922a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a degenerative joint disease caused by autoimmunity; for the effective treatment of RA while avoiding the side effects of conventional drugs, we have proposed a new therapeutic strategy to eliminate the inflammatory response in RA by regulating the immune system that promotes the transformation of M1-type macrophages to M2-type macrophages. Herein, we designed and synthesized a core-shell nanocomposite (QRu-PLGA-RES-DS NPs), which showed an effective therapeutic effect on RA by accurately inducing the polarization of M2 macrophages. In this system, the quadrilateral ruthenium nanoparticles (QRuNPs) with a photothermal effect were utilized as a core and the thermosensitive molecular poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) modified with the targeted molecule dextran sulfate (DS) was employed as a shell. Then, the nanocarrier QRu-PLGA-DS NPs effectively improved the water solubility and targeting of resveratrol (RES) through self-assembly. Therefore, the QRu-PLGA-RES-DS NPs significantly enhanced the ability of RES to reverse the M1 type macrophages to the M2 type macrophages through an accurate release. In vivo experiments further demonstrated that the QRu-PLGA-RES-DS NPs could effectively accumulate in the lesion area with an exogenous stimulus, and this significantly enhanced the transformation of the M2 type macrophages and decreased the recruitment of the M1 type macrophages. Furthermore, the QRu-PLGA-RES-DS NPs effectively treated RA by eliminating the inflammatory response; in addition, photoacoustic imaging (PA) of the QRu NPs provided image guidance for the distribution and analysis of nanomedicine in inflammatory tissues. Hence, this therapeutic strategy promotes the biological applications of Ru-based nanoparticles in disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Chen
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, 510632, P. R. China.
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Nakashima Y, Kondo M, Shono E, Ishinishi T, Tsukamoto H, Kuroda K, Maeyama A, Harada H, Maekawa M, Shimauchi T, Nagamine R, Jojima H, Yoshizawa S, Tsuru T, Otsuka T, Miyahara H, Suematsu E, Wada K, Yoshizawa S, Inoue Y, Fukuda T, Ikemura S, Haraguchi A. Suppression of joint destruction with subcutaneous tocilizumab for Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis in clinical practice. Mod Rheumatol 2019; 30:807-815. [PMID: 31580188 DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2019.1676369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the efficacy of suppressing joint destruction with subcutaneous tocilizumab (TCZ-SC) for Japanese rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in the real-world clinical setting.Methods: This 1-year prospective, multicenter study included 110 RA patients in whom TCZ-SC was newly initiated. Primary endpoint was the change from baseline in vdH-modified total Sharp score (mTSS) at week 52. Structural remission was defined as yearly mTSS of 0.5 or less. Disease activity was evaluated using the disease activity score (DAS28-ESR) and clinical disease activity index (CDAI).Results: At baseline, the patients' mean age was 58.6 years, and the mean disease duration was 10.6 years. The proportion of patients who were naïve for biologics was 44.5%, and 64.5% concomitantly received methotrexate. The yearly mTSS showed significant improvement from 9.41 before TCZ-SC initiation to -0.15 after 52 weeks. The structural remission rate was 76.1%. After 52 weeks, the DAS28-ESR and CDAI remission rates were 52% and 21%, respectively. Although the previous usage of biologics and baseline disease activity significantly affected the clinical remission, no factors with significant effects on structural remission were identified.Conclusion: These findings support the efficacy of TCZ-SC in suppressing disease activity as well as joint destruction over a 1-year period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masakazu Kondo
- Department of Rheumatology and Orthopaedic Surgery, Kondo Clinic of Rheumatology and Orthopaedic Surgery, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Eisuke Shono
- Department of Rheumatology and Orthopaedic Surgery, Shono Rheumatology Clinic, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashi Ishinishi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ishinishi Orthopedic Clinic, Fukuoka, Japan
| | | | - Koji Kuroda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kuroda Orthopedic Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Akira Maeyama
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Harada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yagi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masayuki Maekawa
- Department of Rheumatology and Orthopaedic Surgery, Maekawa Clinic of Rheumatology and Orthopaedic Surgery, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashi Shimauchi
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukuoka Hoeikai Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ryuji Nagamine
- Centre of Artificial Joint and Rheumatism, Fukuoka Tokushukai Medical Center, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Jojima
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Seiji Yoshizawa
- Department of Rheumatology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomomi Tsuru
- Department of Rheumatology, PS Clinic, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takeshi Otsuka
- Department of Rheumatology, Munakata Medical Association Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hisaaki Miyahara
- Department of Orthopedics, National Hospital Organization Kyushu Medical Center, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Eiichi Suematsu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, National Hospital Organization Kyushu Medical Center, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ken Wada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Wada Orthopaedic Clinic, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shigeru Yoshizawa
- Department of Rheumatology, National Fukuoka Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yasushi Inoue
- Department of Rheumatology, Fukuoka Red Cross Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takaaki Fukuda
- Department of Rheumatology, Koga Hospital 21, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ikemura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Akihisa Haraguchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Jamilloux Y, El Jammal T, Vuitton L, Gerfaud-Valentin M, Kerever S, Sève P. JAK inhibitors for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:102390. [PMID: 31520803 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.102390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cytokines play a central role in the pathophysiology of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Several cytokines signal through the JAK-STAT pathway, which is now recognized as a major target to inhibit the effect of a wide array of cytokines. JAK inhibitors are increasingly used in the setting of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. While the currently approved drugs are panJAK inhibitors, more selective small molecules are being developed and tested in various rheumatic disorders. In this extensive review, we present evidence- or hypothesis-based perspectives for these drugs in various rheumatologic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, giant cell arteritis, and autoinflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvan Jamilloux
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lyon University Hospital, Lyon, France.
| | - Thomas El Jammal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lyon University Hospital, Lyon, France
| | - Lucine Vuitton
- Department of Gastroenterology, Besancon University Hospital, Besancon, France
| | | | - Sébastien Kerever
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Lariboisière University Hospital, AP-HP, ECSTRA Team, CRESS, Epidemiology and Statistics Center, Sorbonne Paris Cité, UMR 1153, INSERM, University Denis Diderot - Paris VII, Paris, France
| | - Pascal Sève
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lyon University Hospital, Lyon, France
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Ho CTK, Mok CC, Cheung TT, Kwok KY, Yip RML. Management of rheumatoid arthritis: 2019 updated consensus recommendations from the Hong Kong Society of Rheumatology. Clin Rheumatol 2019; 38:3331-3350. [PMID: 31485846 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-019-04761-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The expanding range of treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), from conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to biological DMARDs (bDMARDs), biosimilar bDMARDs, and targeted synthetic DMARDs, has improved patient outcomes but increased the complexity of treatment decisions. These updated consensus recommendations from the Hong Kong Society of Rheumatology provide guidance on the management of RA, with a focus on how to integrate newly available DMARDs into clinical practice. The recommendations were developed based on evidence from the literature along with local expert opinion. Early diagnosis of RA and prompt initiation of effective therapy remain crucial and we suggest a treat-to-target approach to guide optimal sequencing of DMARDs in RA patients to achieve tight disease control. Newly available DMARDs are incorporated in the treatment algorithm, resulting in a greater range of second-line treatment options. In the event of treatment failure or intolerance, switching to another DMARD with a similar or different mode of action may be considered. Given the variety of available treatments and the heterogeneity of patients with RA, treatment decisions should be tailored to the individual patient taking into consideration prognostic factors, medical comorbidities, drug safety, cost of treatment, and patient preference.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chi Chiu Mok
- Department of Medicine, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong, China.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication-based strategies to treat rheumatoid arthritis are crucial in terms of outcome. They aim at preventing joint destruction, loss of function and disability by early and consistent inhibition of inflammatory processes. OBJECTIVE Achieving consensus about evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs in Germany. METHODS Following a systematic literature research, a structured process among expert rheumatologists was used to reach consensus. RESULTS The results of the consensus process can be summed up in 6 overarching principles and 10 recommendations. There are several new issues compared to the version of 2012, such as differentiated adjustments to the therapeutic regime according to time point and extent of treatment response, the therapeutic goal of achieving remission as assessed by means of the simplified disease activity index (SDAI) as well as the potential use of targeted synthetic DMARDs (JAK inhibitors) and suggestions for a deescalating in case of achieving a sustained remission. Methotrexate still plays the central role at the beginning of the treatment and as a combination partner in the further treatment course. When treatment response to methotrexate is inadequate, either switching to or combining with another conventional synthetic DMARD is an option in the absence of unfavourable prognostic factors. Otherwise biologic or targeted synthetic DMARDs are recommended according to the algorithm. Rules for deescalating treatment with glucocorticoids and-where applicable-DMARDs give support for the management of patients who have reached a sustained remission. DISCUSSION The new guidelines set up recommendations for RA treatment in accordance with the treat-to-target principle. Modern disease-modifying drugs, now including also JAK inhibitors, are available in an algorithm.
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De Cock D, Van der Elst K, Stouten V, Peerboom D, Joly J, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. The perspective of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis on the journey from symptom onset until referral to a rheumatologist. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2019; 3:rkz035. [PMID: 32083241 PMCID: PMC7018614 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkz035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Timely treatment of patients with early RA (ERA) favours a beneficial disease outcome. However, individuals often delay their contact with a health-care professional (HCP) after ERA-related symptom onset. The aim of this study was to investigate the perspective of patients on the journey of a patient from RA symptom onset until referral to a specialist. Methods A subgroup of patients with ERA from the Care in ERA (CareRA) trial were interviewed retrospectively to discuss their initial ERA-related experiences preceding diagnosis, using a bespoke assessment form. The first section of the form focused on initial symptoms and help-seeking behaviour by the patients. The second part probed the actions of the HCPs consulted. Additional notes derived from the patient stories were analysed thematically. Results Among 94 patients, pain (97%), swelling (73%) and stiffness (52%), typically in multiple joints, were reported as initial ERA symptoms. The general practitioner (GP) was generally the first HCP to be contacted (87%). Frequently reported reasons to visit an HCP were intense pain (90.4%) and difficulties in performing daily activities (69%). In 44.1% of patients, the HCP suspected ERA at the first visit. Approximately 25% of patients needed more than five visits before detection of ERA. GPs mainly referred patients to rheumatologists (71%). Thematic analysis uncovered that multiple HCPs were often involved in the journey to RA detection and referral. Conclusion Pain is the most commonly reported initial symptom of ERA and the main reason to visit an HCP, usually a GP. These GPs play a pivotal role in early detection and correct referral. Furthermore, the journey of a patient seems complex, often with multiple HCPs being involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diederik De Cock
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristien Van der Elst
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Stouten
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Donna Peerboom
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Joly
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rene Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Wallace BI, Wallace DM, Waljee AK, Clauw DJ. Evidence to support or guide glucocorticoid tapering in rheumatoid arthritis is lacking. Ann Rheum Dis 2019; 78:1733-1734. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-216009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Aletaha D, Smolen JS. Does Triple Conventional Synthetic Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drug Therapy Improve upon Methotrexate as the Initial Treatment of Choice for a Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient? Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2019; 45:315-324. [PMID: 31277746 DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although many treatment options exist for the initial management of rheumatoid arthritis, there has long been discussion about whether initial treatment should be with methotrexate (MTX) as monotherapy or in combination with other conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs). Although studies initially showed additional benefit from combining MTX with other csDMARDs, this benefit disappears when glucocorticoids are added to MTX, a strategy recommended in current guidelines as a short-term bridging approach until MTX therapy exhibits its full efficacy. Also concomitant use of glucocorticoids, with MTX may not be inferior to combination therapy of MTX with TNF-inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Aletaha
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Medical University Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Josef S Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Medical University Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Update of the Mexican College of Rheumatology Guidelines for the Pharmacological Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, 2018. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 17:215-228. [PMID: 31103432 DOI: 10.1016/j.reuma.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic advances in rheumatoid arthritis require periodic review of treatment guidelines. OBJECTIVE To update the Mexican College of Rheumatology guidelines on the pharmacological treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. METHOD Board certified rheumatologists from different health institutions and regions of the country participated. Work teams were formed that reviewed the previous guidelines, elaborated new questions, reviewed the literature, and scored the evidence that was presented and discussed in plenary session. The conclusions were presented to infectologists, gynaecologists and patients. Recommendations were based on levels of evidence according to GRADE methodology. RESULTS Updated recommendations on the use of available medications for rheumatoid arthritis treatment in Mexico up to 2017 are presented. The importance of adequate and sustained control of the disease is emphasized and relevant safety aspects are described. Bioethical conflicts are included, and government action is invited to strengthen correct treatment of the disease. CONCLUSIONS The updated recommendations of the Mexican College of Rheumatology on the pharmacological treatment of rheumatoid arthritis incorporate the best available information to be used in the Mexican health care system.
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Petta I, Peene I, Elewaut D, Vereecke L, De Bosscher K. Risks and benefits of corticosteroids in arthritic diseases in the clinic. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 165:112-125. [PMID: 30978323 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) constitute a first line treatment for many autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Due to their potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions, GCs are added frequently to disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in various arthritic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. However, their prolonged administration or administration at high doses is associated with adverse effects that may be (quality of) life-threatening, including osteoporosis, metabolic, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side effects. In this review, we summarize the clinical and pharmacological effects of GCs in different arthritic diseases, while documenting the current research efforts towards the identification of novel and more efficient GCs with reduced side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Petta
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Host-Microbiota Interaction Lab (HMI) and Laboratory for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), Ghent University, Technologiepark 71 - Zwijnaarde, 9052 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Gut Inflammation Group (GGIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Peene
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Host-Microbiota Interaction Lab (HMI) and Laboratory for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), Ghent University, Technologiepark 71 - Zwijnaarde, 9052 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Rheumatology, AZ SintJan, Ruddershove 10, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
| | - Dirk Elewaut
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Host-Microbiota Interaction Lab (HMI) and Laboratory for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), Ghent University, Technologiepark 71 - Zwijnaarde, 9052 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Gut Inflammation Group (GGIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lars Vereecke
- Department of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Host-Microbiota Interaction Lab (HMI) and Laboratory for Molecular Immunology and Inflammation, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC), Ghent University, Technologiepark 71 - Zwijnaarde, 9052 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Gut Inflammation Group (GGIG), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Karolien De Bosscher
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Translational Nuclear Receptor Research, VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology, Albert Baertsoenkaai 3, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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41
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Brinkmann GH, Norvang V, Norli ES, Grøvle L, Haugen AJ, Lexberg ÅS, Rødevand E, Bakland G, Nygaard H, Krøll F, Widding-Hansen IJ, Bjørneboe O, Thunem C, Kvien T, Mjaavatten MD, Lie E. Treat to target strategy in early rheumatoid arthritis versus routine care – A comparative clinical practice study. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2019; 48:808-814. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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42
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Daien C, Hua C, Gaujoux-Viala C, Cantagrel A, Dubremetz M, Dougados M, Fautrel B, Mariette X, Nayral N, Richez C, Saraux A, Thibaud G, Wendling D, Gossec L, Combe B. Update of French society for rheumatology recommendations for managing rheumatoid arthritis. Joint Bone Spine 2019; 86:135-150. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Lau CS, Chia F, Dans L, Harrison A, Hsieh TY, Jain R, Jung SM, Kishimoto M, Kumar A, Leong KP, Li Z, Lichauco JJ, Louthrenoo W, Luo SF, Mu R, Nash P, Ng CT, Suryana B, Wijaya LK, Yeap SS. 2018 update of the APLAR recommendations for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Int J Rheum Dis 2019; 22:357-375. [PMID: 30809944 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.13513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM To update recommendations based on current best evidence concerning the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), focusing particularly on the role of targeted therapies, to inform clinicians on new developments that will impact their current practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS A search of relevant literature from 2014 to 2016 concerning targeted therapies in RA was conducted. The RA Update Working Group evaluated the evidence and proposed updated recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach, to describe the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations. Recommendations were finalized through consensus using the Delphi technique. RESULTS This update provides 16 RA treatment recommendations based on current best evidence and expert clinical opinion. Recommendations 1-3 deal with the use of conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. The next three recommendations (4-6) cover the need for screening and management of infections and comorbid conditions prior to starting targeted therapy, while the following seven recommendations focus on use of these agents. We address choice of targeted therapy, switch, tapering and discontinuation. The last three recommendations elaborate on targeted therapy for RA in special situations such as pregnancy, cancer, and major surgery. CONCLUSION Rheumatoid arthritis remains a significant health problem in the Asia-Pacific region. Patients with RA can benefit from the availability of effective targeted therapies, and these updated recommendations provide clinicians with guidance on their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chak Sing Lau
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Faith Chia
- Department of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Leonila Dans
- Department of Pediatrics, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines.,Department of Clinical Epidemiology, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Andrew Harrison
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Tsu Yi Hsieh
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | - Seung Min Jung
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mitsumasa Kishimoto
- Immuno-Rheumatology Center, St Luke's International Hospital, St Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Rheumatology, Fortis Flt. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Khai Pang Leong
- Department of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhanguo Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Beijing University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Javier Lichauco
- Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology Center, St. Luke's Medical Center, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Worawit Louthrenoo
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Shue Fen Luo
- Department of Rheumatology, Allergy, Immunology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Rong Mu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Beijing University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Peter Nash
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chin Teck Ng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bagus Suryana
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang, Indonesia
| | | | - Swan Sim Yeap
- Department of Medicine, Subang Jaya Medical Centre, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
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44
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Georgiev T, Stoilov R. Bulgarian rheumatology: science and practice in a cost-constrained environment. Rheumatol Int 2018; 39:417-429. [PMID: 30413925 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-018-4202-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to appraise publications from Bulgaria, to assess their global impact, and to describe features and challenges unique to the rheumatology practice in Bulgaria characterized by stringent cost constraints. The Scopus database was queried on 25th July 2018 and data on the number of published documents, their Hirsch-indices and citations number were extracted. Published Bulgarian guidelines for the management of rheumatic diseases and the presented data on Bulgarian Rheumatology Society were identified based on prior knowledge of the authors. From all the identified 1082 document the most extensively researched areas were rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis (OA). For the last five years (from Jan 2013 to 25th July 2018) the number of publications was 293. We found that Bulgaria's international scientific collaboration in the field of rheumatology is focused on a handful of countries mainly from Europe. Although Bulgarian rheumatologists have access to costly biologic agents for treating their patients with rheumatic diseases, their funding may not be granted according to the current recommendations of European League against Rheumatism (EULAR) and national guidelines for the management of rheumatic diseases. Although the western world clearly dominates the production of scientific publications in rheumatology, Bulgarian rheumatology may present another perspective for diagnosis and management of patients with rheumatic diseases in a cost-stringent environment. Nevertheless, both rheumatology science and practice in Bulgaria still have a long way to go to take its deserved place among the other European countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsvetoslav Georgiev
- Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital "St. Ivan Rilski", Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria.
| | - Rumen Stoilov
- Clinic of Rheumatology, University Hospital "St. Ivan Rilski", Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
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45
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Arayssi T, Harfouche M, Darzi A, Al Emadi S, A Alnaqbi K, Badsha H, Al Balushi F, Dib C, Elzorkany B, Halabi H, Hammoudeh M, Hazer W, Masri B, Merashli M, Omair M, Salloum N, Uthman I, Zahirovic S, Ziade N, Bannuru RR, McAlindon T, Nomier MA, Singh JA, Christensen R, Tugwell P, Schünemann H, Akl EA. Recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis in the Eastern Mediterranean region: an adolopment of the 2015 American College of Rheumatology guidelines. Clin Rheumatol 2018; 37:2947-2959. [PMID: 30097896 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-018-4245-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Clinical practice guidelines can assist rheumatologists in the proper prescription of newer treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The objective of this paper is to report on the recommendations for the management of patients with RA in the Eastern Mediterranean region. We adapted the 2015 American College of Rheumatology guidelines in two separate waves. We used the adolopment methodology, and followed the 18 steps of the "Guidelines 2.0" comprehensive checklist for guideline development. For each question, we updated the original guidelines' evidence synthesis, and we developed an Evidence Profile (EP) and an Evidence to Decision (EtD) table. In the first wave, we adoloped eight out of the 15 original questions on early RA. The strength changed for five of these recommendations from strong to conditional, due to one or more of the following factors: cost, impact on health equities, the balance of benefits, and harms and acceptability. In the second wave, we adoloped eight out of the original 44 questions on established RA. The strength changed for two of these recommendations from strong to conditional, in both cases due to cost, impact on health equities, balance of benefits and harms, and acceptability. The panel also developed a good practice recommendation. We successfully adoloped 16 recommendations for the management of early and established RA in the Eastern Mediterranean region. The process proved feasible and sensitive to contextual factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thurayya Arayssi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Manale Harfouche
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Andrea Darzi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, AUB GRADE Center, Clinical Research Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samar Al Emadi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khalid A Alnaqbi
- Department of Rheumatology, Medical Institute, Al Ain Hospital, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Humeira Badsha
- Dr. Humeira Badsha Medical Center, Emirates Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Carole Dib
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Hussein Halabi
- Rheumatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Wissam Hazer
- Nursing Department, Aspetar Qatar Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Basel Masri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jordan Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mira Merashli
- Department of Rheumatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohammed Omair
- Division of Rheumatology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nelly Salloum
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Imad Uthman
- Department of Rheumatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sumeja Zahirovic
- Department of Internal Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nelly Ziade
- Faculty of Medicine, Univeristé Saint Joseph, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Raveendhara R Bannuru
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Timothy McAlindon
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mohamed A Nomier
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jasvinder A Singh
- Medicine Service, VA Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA.,Department of Medicine at School of Medicine, and Division of Epidemiology at School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Robin Christensen
- Musculoskeletal Statistics Unit, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Peter Tugwell
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Holger Schünemann
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (HE&I), McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Elie A Akl
- Department of Rheumatology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon. .,Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (HE&I), McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. .,AUB GRADE Center, Clinical Research Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
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46
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Zeng T, Tan L. 14-3-3η protein: a promising biomarker for rheumatoid arthritis. Biomark Med 2018; 12:917-925. [DOI: 10.2217/bmm-2017-0385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) depends on early identification followed by timely invention and proper monitoring of treatment responses which remain challenges facing rheumatologists for lacking biomarkers of high sensitivity and specificity. 14-3-3η has been reported to be a novel RA-related biomarker inducing the expression of multiple factors mediating the pathogenesis of RA, and increasing the diagnostic capture when combined with rheumatoid factor and anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibody. Besides, elevated serum 14-3-3η was relevant to more serious joint erosion and worse therapy outcomes. Here, we summarized the emerging knowledge regarding the roles 14-3-3η plays in RA and its clinical implications as diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic response surrogate as well as potential drug target for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zeng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University & Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330000, PR China
| | - Liming Tan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University & Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330000, PR China
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47
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Wailoo A, Hock ES, Stevenson M, Martyn-St James M, Rawdin A, Simpson E, Wong R, Dracup N, Scott DL, Young A. The clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of treat-to-target strategies in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and cost-effectiveness analysis. Health Technol Assess 2018; 21:1-258. [PMID: 29206093 DOI: 10.3310/hta21710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treat to target (TTT) is a broad concept for treating patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It involves setting a treatment target, usually remission or low disease activity (LDA). This is often combined with frequent patient assessment and intensive and rapidly adjusted drug treatment, sometimes based on a formal protocol. OBJECTIVE To investigate the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of TTT compared with routine care. DATA SOURCES Databases including EMBASE and MEDLINE were searched from 2008 to August 2016. REVIEW METHODS A systematic review of clinical effectiveness was conducted. Studies were grouped according to comparisons made: (1) TTT compared with usual care, (2) different targets and (3) different treatment protocols. Trials were subgrouped by early or established disease populations. Study heterogeneity precluded meta-analyses. Narrative synthesis was undertaken for the first two comparisons, but was not feasible for the third. A systematic review of cost-effectiveness was also undertaken. No model was constructed as a result of the heterogeneity among studies identified in the clinical effectiveness review. Instead, conclusions were drawn on the cost-effectiveness of TTT from papers relating to these studies. RESULTS Sixteen clinical effectiveness studies were included. They differed in terms of treatment target, treatment protocol (where one existed) and patient visit frequency. For several outcomes, mixed results or evidence of no difference between TTT and conventional care was found. In early disease, two studies found that TTT resulted in favourable remission rates, although the findings of one study were not statistically significant. In established disease, two studies showed that TTT may be beneficial in terms of LDA at 6 months, although, again, in one case the finding was not statistically significant. The TICORA (TIght COntrol for RA) trial found evidence of lower remission rates for TTT in a mixed population. Two studies reported cost-effectiveness: in one, TTT dominated usual care; in the other, step-up combination treatments were shown to be cost-effective. In 5 of the 16 studies included the clinical effectiveness review, no cost-effectiveness conclusion could be reached, and in one study no conclusion could be drawn in the case of patients denoted low risk. In the remaining 10 studies, and among patients denoted high risk in one study, cost-effectiveness was inferred. In most cases TTT is likely to be cost-effective, except where biological treatment in early disease is used initially. No conclusions could be drawn for established disease. LIMITATIONS TTT refers not to a single concept, but to a range of broad approaches. Evidence reflects this. Studies exhibit substantial heterogeneity, which hinders evidence synthesis. Many included studies are at risk of bias. FUTURE WORK Future studies comparing TTT with usual care must link to existing evidence. A consistent definition of remission in studies is required. There may be value in studies to establish the importance of different elements of TTT (the setting of a target, the intensive use of drug treatments and protocols pertaining to those drugs and the frequent assessment of patients). CONCLUSION In early RA and studies of mixed early and established RA populations, evidence suggests that TTT improves remission rates. In established disease, TTT may lead to improved rates of LDA. It remains unclear which element(s) of TTT (the target, treatment protocols or increased frequency of patient visits) drive these outcomes. Future trials comparing TTT with usual care and/or different TTT targets should use outcomes comparable with existing literature. Remission, defined in a consistent manner, should be the target of choice of future studies. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42015017336. FUNDING The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan Wailoo
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Emma S Hock
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Matt Stevenson
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Andrew Rawdin
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Emma Simpson
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ruth Wong
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Naila Dracup
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - David L Scott
- King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Adam Young
- West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Watford, UK
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48
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Controversies in rheumatoid arthritis glucocorticoid therapy. Joint Bone Spine 2018; 85:417-422. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2017.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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49
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Mota LMHD, Kakehasi AM, Gomides APM, Duarte ALBP, Cruz BA, Brenol CV, de Albuquerque CP, Castelar Pinheiro GDR, Laurindo IMM, Pereira IA, Bertolo MB, Ubirajara Silva de Souza MPG, de Freitas MVC, Louzada-Júnior P, Xavier RM, Giorgi RDN. 2017 recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology for the pharmacological treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Adv Rheumatol 2018; 58:2. [PMID: 30657071 DOI: 10.1186/s42358-018-0005-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this document is to provide a comprehensive update of the recommendations of Brazilian Society of Rheumatology on drug treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), based on a systematic literature review and on the opinion of a panel of rheumatologists. Four general principles and eleven recommendations were approved. General principles: RA treatment should (1) preferably consist of a multidisciplinary approach coordinated by a rheumatologist, (2) include counseling on lifestyle habits, strict control of comorbidities, and updates of the vaccination record, (3) be based on decisions shared by the patient and the physician after clarification about the disease and the available therapeutic options; (4) the goal is sustained clinical remission or, when this is not feasible, low disease activity. Recommendations: (1) the first line of treatment should be a csDMARD, started as soon as the diagnosis of RA is established; (2) methotrexate (MTX) is the first-choice csDMARD; (3) the combination of two or more csDMARDs, including MTX, may be used as the first line of treatment; (4) after failure of first-line therapy with MTX, the therapeutic strategies include combining MTX with another csDMARD (leflunomide), with two csDMARDs (hydroxychloroquine and sulfasalazine), or switching MTX for another csDMARD (leflunomide or sulfasalazine) alone; (5) after failure of two schemes with csDMARDs, a bDMARD may be preferably used or, alternatively a tsDMARD, preferably combined, in both cases, with a csDMARD; (6) the different bDMARDs in combination with MTX have similar efficacy, and therefore, the therapeutic choice should take into account the peculiarities of each drug in terms of safety and cost; (7) the combination of a bDMARD and MTX is preferred over the use of a bDMARD alone; (8) in case of failure of an initial treatment scheme with a bDMARD, a scheme with another bDMARD can be used; in cases of failure with a TNFi, a second bDMARD of the same class or with another mechanism of action is effective and safe; (9) tofacitinib can be used to treat RA after failure of bDMARD; (10) corticosteroids, preferably at low doses for the shortest possible time, should be considered during periods of disease activity, and the risk-benefit ratio should also be considered; (11) reducing or spacing out bDMARD doses is possible in patients in sustained remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Licia Maria Henrique da Mota
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina- Universidade de Brasília; Serviço de Reumatologia, Hospital Universitário de Brasília, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil. .,Rheos, Centro Médico Lúcio Costa, SGAS 610, bloco 1, salas T50- T51, L2 Sul, Asa Sul, Brasília, DF, 70200700, Brazil.
| | - Adriana Maria Kakehasi
- Disciplina de Reumatologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Monteiro Gomides
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina- Universidade de Brasília; Serviço de Reumatologia, Hospital Universitário de Brasília, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,Centro Universitário de Brasília- UniCEUB, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | - Claiton Viegas Brenol
- Serviço de Reumatologia, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Serviço de Reumatologia, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Manoel Barros Bertolo
- Disciplina de Reumatologia, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | | | - Paulo Louzada-Júnior
- Disciplina de Reumatologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Machado Xavier
- Serviço de Reumatologia, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Serviço de Reumatologia, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Rina Dalva Neubarth Giorgi
- Serviço de Reumatologia, Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual de São Paulo, Instituto de Assistência Médica ao Servidor Público Estadual, São Paulo, Brazil
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50
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Akdemir G, Markusse IM, Bergstra SA, Goekoop RJ, Molenaar ET, van Groenendael JHLM, Kerstens PJSM, Lems WF, Huizinga TWJ, Allaart CF. Comparison between low disease activity or DAS remission as treatment target in patients with early active rheumatoid arthritis. RMD Open 2018; 4:e000649. [PMID: 29862045 PMCID: PMC5976116 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2018-000649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To compare outcomes of targeted treatment aimed at either low disease activity or remission in patients with early active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods Five-year outcomes were compared in 133 patients with early active RA (1987), starting with methotrexate, sulfasalazine and tapered high dose of prednisone (arm 3 of the BehandelStrategieën (Treatment Strategies for Rheumatoid Arthritis) (BeSt) study), targeted at Disease Activity Score (DAS) ≤2.4 (low disease activity), and 175 patients with early RA, starting methotrexate and tapered high dose of prednisone, targeted at DAS <1.6 (selected from IMPROVED study who would have fulfilled inclusion criteria of the BeSt study). Association of treatment target with outcomes DAS <1.6, Boolean remission at year 1 and drug-free DAS remission (DFR) at year 5 were analysed by logistic regression analysis. Results At baseline, DAS <1.6 steered patients had a milder disease than DAS ≤2.4 steered patients (mean DAS 4.1±SD 0.7vs4.4±0.9, p=0.012) and less radiological damage. DAS decrease, functional ability and radiological damage progression over time were similar in both patient groups. DAS ≤2.4 was achieved in similar percentages in both patient groups, but more DAS <1.6 steered patients achieved DAS <1.6 and DFR. DAS <1.6 steered treatment was associated with achieving DAS <1.6 (OR 3.04 (95% CI 1.64 to 5.62)) and Boolean remission (3.03 (1.45 to 6.33)) at year 1 and DFR at year 5 (3.77 (1.51 to 9.43)). Conclusions In patients with early active RA who start with comparable disease-modifying antirheumatic drug+prednisone combination therapy, subsequent DAS <1.6 steered treatment is associated with similar clinical and radiological outcomes over time as DAS ≤2.4 steered treatment; however, in the DAS <1.6 steered group, more patients achieved remission and drug-free remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülşah Akdemir
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Iris M Markusse
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sytske Anne Bergstra
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Robbert J Goekoop
- Department of Rheumatology, Haga Hospital, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Willem F Lems
- Department of Rheumatology, Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology, VUMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom W J Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelia F Allaart
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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