1
|
Karnam S, Donthi MR, Jindal AB, Paul AT. Recent innovations in topical delivery for management of rheumatoid arthritis: A focus on combination drug delivery. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104071. [PMID: 38942070 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an immune-mediated disease that necessitates a thorough understanding of its intricate pathophysiological mechanism for precise and effective therapeutic targeting. The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) has established guidelines for RA treatment, endorsing monotherapy or combination therapy with corticosteroids and synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (sDMARDs). This review delves into clinical trials and research outcomes related to combination drug delivery, with an emphasis on the role of natural products in combination with synthetic drugs. Given the significant adverse effects associated with systemic administration, topical delivery has emerged as an alternative avenue for effective management of RA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sriravali Karnam
- Laboratory of Natural Product Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, Pilani Campus, Rajasthan 333031, India
| | - Mahipal Reddy Donthi
- Laboratory of Natural Product Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, Pilani Campus, Rajasthan 333031, India
| | - Anil B Jindal
- Laboratory of Natural Product Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, Pilani Campus, Rajasthan 333031, India
| | - Atish T Paul
- Laboratory of Natural Product Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, Pilani Campus, Rajasthan 333031, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Faison MN, Davis AM, Trotter KC. Disease-Modifying Drugs for Adult-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis. JAMA 2024; 331:1055-1056. [PMID: 38451547 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.26504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
This article summarizes a 2022 clinical practice guideline on the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for adults with rheumatoid arthritis from the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maya N Faison
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Andrew M Davis
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
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.
Collapse
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
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cutolo M, Shoenfeld Y, Bogdanos DP, Gotelli E, Salvato M, Gunkl-Tóth L, Nagy G. To treat or not to treat rheumatoid arthritis with glucocorticoids? A reheated debate. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103437. [PMID: 37652398 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103437] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The therapeutic landscape of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has rapidly evolved in the last few decades. At the same time, recommendations for the management of the disease suggest to minimize glucocorticoids (GCs) use in RA patients. Major concerns are the risk of long-term adverse events and the difficulties in discontinuing GCs once initiated. However, real-world data show that up to 50% of RA patients continue to take GCs during the disease course. Adverse events of GCs usually occur after a long-term use, which can limit the generalizability of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) proving no or minimal harm. Observational studies show conflicting results regarding the safety of GSs and are subjected to a high risk of bias, including indication bias. Thus, whether or not GCs should be used in the management of RA is still a matter of debate. The main reasons to support GCs use are the ability to rapidly suppress joint inflammation while waiting for the full effect of conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARD) and the acknowledged efficacy on radiographic progression in early RA. The main reasons to avoid GCs use in RA are that their potential risks may outweigh their benefits and there is no agreement on the minimal daily dosage of GC which can be considered safe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Cutolo
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (DiMI), University of Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Reichman University, Herzelia, Israel; Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmunity, Sheba Medical Center, Israel.
| | - Dimitrios P Bogdanos
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Thessaly Medical School, Larissa, Greece
| | - Emanuele Gotelli
- Laboratory of Experimental Rheumatology and Academic Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine (DiMI), University of Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Mariangela Salvato
- Department of Medicine DIMED, Division of Rheumatology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Lilla Gunkl-Tóth
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; ELKH Chronic Pain Research Group, Pécs, Hungary
| | - György Nagy
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Hospital of the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of God, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Doumen M, De Meyst E, Lefevre C, Pazmino S, Joly J, Bertrand D, Devinck M, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Effectiveness and feasibility of a mobile health self-management intervention in rheumatoid arthritis: study protocol for a pragmatic multicentre randomised controlled trial (AEGORA). Trials 2023; 24:697. [PMID: 37898781 PMCID: PMC10613379 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07733-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) considerably impacts patients' lives. Patients' confidence in their ability to manage this impact, or self-efficacy, can be supported with self-management interventions. One approach is to use mobile health (mHealth) applications, which can additionally provide insight into disease impact by remotely monitoring patient-reported outcomes. However, user engagement with mHealth-apps is variable, and concerns exist that remote monitoring might make patients overly attentive to symptoms. METHODS App-based Education and GOal setting in RA (AEGORA) is a multicentre, pragmatic randomised controlled trial investigating an mHealth-based self-management intervention to improve self-efficacy and remotely monitor disease impact in patients with RA. The intervention is provided via an adapted version of the application Sidekick (Sidekick Health, Reykjavik, Iceland) and consists of education, goal setting, lifestyle advice, and remote assessment of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Impact of Disease (RAID) questionnaire. Across two centres, 120 patients will be recruited and randomised (2:1:1) to usual care or intervention group A/B (study app with weekly/monthly prompts to complete the RAID, respectively). Outcomes are assessed at baseline and after 4-6 months. The primary endpoint is a clinically important improvement (≥ 5.5/110) in the Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale in the combined intervention group compared to usual care. Secondary endpoints are (a) non-inferiority regarding pain catastrophising, as a measure of symptom hypervigilance; (b) superiority regarding the RAID, sleep quality, and physical activity; and (c) participant engagement with the study app. Finally, the relationship between engagement, prompted frequency of RAID questionnaires, and the primary and secondary outcomes will be explored. DISCUSSION The AEGORA trial aims to study the effectiveness of mHealth-based, multicomponent self-management support to improve self-efficacy in the context of RA, while providing potentially valuable insights into temporal disease activity dynamics and the feasibility and possible negative effects of remote symptom monitoring in this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05888181. Retrospectively registered on March 23, 2023. Study inclusion started on March 3, 2023.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Doumen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Elias De Meyst
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cedric Lefevre
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Joly
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stouten V, Westhovens R, Pazmino S, De Cock D, Van der Elst K, Joly J, Bertrand D, Verschueren P. Response to: 'Correspondence on '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'' by Jain and Dhir et al. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:e163. [PMID: 34193403 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-220857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Veerle Stouten
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Johan Joly
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
van Ouwerkerk L, Boers M, Emery P, de Jong PH, Landewé RB, Lems W, Smolen JS, Verschueren P, Huizinga TW, Allaart CF, Bergstra SA. Individual patient data meta-analysis on continued use of glucocorticoids after their initiation as bridging therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:468-475. [PMID: 36526336 PMCID: PMC10086274 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2022-223443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate whether patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can discontinue glucocorticoids (GC) after GC 'bridging' in the initial treatment step and to identify factors that may affect this. METHODS Data from 7 clinical trial arms (with 1653 patients) that included a GC bridging schedule, previously identified in a systematic literature search, were combined in an individual patient data meta-analysis. Outcomes were GC use (yes/no) at predefined time points (1/3/6/12/18 months after bridging had ended), cumulative GC dose and continuous (≥3 months) GC use after bridging had ended. Age, sex, ACPA status, initial GC dose, duration of bridging schedule, oral versus parenteral GC administration and initial co-treatment were univariably tested with each outcome. RESULTS The probability of using GC 1 month after bridging therapy had ended was 0.18, decreasing to 0.07 from 6 until 18 months after bridging had ended. The probability of continuous GC use after bridging had ended was 0.18 at 1 year and 0.30 at 2 years of follow-up. In oral GC bridging studies only, the probabilities of later and continuous GC use and the cumulative GC doses were higher compared to the combined analyses with also parenteral GC bridging studies included. A higher initial dose and a longer GC bridging schedule were associated with higher cumulative GC doses and more patients on GC at 18 months after bridging had ended. CONCLUSIONS Based on these RA clinical trial arms with an initial GC bridging schedule, the probability of subsequent ongoing GC use following bridging is low.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lotte van Ouwerkerk
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Boers
- Epidemiology & Data Science, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Emery
- Leeds Institute of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Pascal Hp de Jong
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert Bm Landewé
- Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Willem Lems
- Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Josef S Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Division of Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Wj Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelia F Allaart
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sytske Anne Bergstra
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Messelink MA, den Broeder AA, Marinelli FE, Michgels E, Verschueren P, Aletaha D, Tekstra J, Welsing PMJ. What is the best target in a treat-to-target strategy in rheumatoid arthritis? Results from a systematic review and meta-regression analysis. RMD Open 2023; 9:rmdopen-2023-003196. [PMID: 37116986 PMCID: PMC10152050 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2023-003196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A treat-to-target (T2T) strategy has been shown to be superior to usual care in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the optimal target remains unknown. Targets are based on a disease activity measure (eg, Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS28), Simplified Disease Activity Indices/Clinical Disease Activity Indices (SDAI/CDAI), and a cut-off such as remission or low disease activity (LDA). Our aim was to compare the effect of different targets on clinical and radiographic outcomes. METHODS Cochrane, Embase and (pre)MEDLINE databases were searched (1 June 2022) for randomised controlled trials and cohort studies after 2003 that applied T2T in RA patients for ≥12 months. Data were extracted from individual T2T study arms; risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Using meta-regression, we evaluated the effect of the target used on clinical and radiographic outcomes, correcting for heterogeneity between and within studies. RESULTS 115 treatment arms were used in the meta-regression analyses. Aiming for SDAI/CDAI-LDA was statistically superior to targeting DAS-LDA regarding DAS-remission and SDAI/CDAI/Boolean-remission outcomes over 1-3 years. Aiming for SDAI/CDAI-LDA was also significantly superior to DAS-remission regarding both SDAI/CDAI/Boolean-remission (over 1-3 years) and mean SDAI/CDAI (over 1 year). Targeting DAS-remission rather than DAS-LDA only improved the percentage of patients in DAS-remission, and only statistically significantly after 2-3 years of T2T. No differences were observed in Health Assessment Questionnaire and radiographic progression. CONCLUSIONS Targeting SDAI/CDAI-LDA, and to a lesser extent DAS-remission, may be superior to targeting DAS-LDA regarding several clinical outcomes. However, due to the risk of residual confounding and the lack of data on (over)treatment and safety, future studies should aim to directly and comprehensively compare targets. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021249015.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Edwin Michgels
- Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - P Verschueren
- Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Daniel Aletaha
- Department of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Janneke Tekstra
- Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paco M J Welsing
- Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kerschbaumer A, Sepriano A, Bergstra SA, Smolen JS, 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, Landewé RBM. Efficacy of synthetic and biological DMARDs: a systematic literature review informing the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2023; 82:95-106. [PMID: 36368906 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2022-223365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To update the evidence on efficacy of DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) and inform the taskforce of the 2022 update of the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) recommendations for management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS This systematic literature review (SLR) investigated the efficacy of conventional synthetic (cs), biological (b), biosimilar and targeted synthetic (ts)DMARDs in patients with RA. Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL and Web of Science were used to identify all relevant articles published since the previous update in 2019 to 14 January 2022. RESULTS Of 8969 search results, 169 articles were selected for detailed review and 47 were finally included. Trials investigated the efficacy of csDMARDs, bDMARDs and tsDMARDs, DMARD switching, tapering and trials investigating different treatment strategies. The compounds investigated were csDMARDs (methotrexate (MTX), leflunomide, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine), bDMARDs (abatacept, adalimumab, certolizumab-pegol, denosumab, etanercept, infliximab, levilimab, olokizumab, opineracept, rituximab, sarilumab, tocilizumab) and tsDMARDs (baricitinib, filgotinib, tofacitinib, upadacitinib). The efficacy of csDMARDs+ short-term glucocorticoids in early RA was confirmed and similar to bDMARD+MTX combination therapy. Interleukin-6 pathway inhibition was effective in trials on olokizumab and levilimab. Janus kinase inhibitor (JAKi) was efficacious in different patient populations. After insufficient response to JAKi, patients could respond to TNFi treatment. Tapering of DMARDs was feasible for a proportion of patients, who were able to taper therapy while remaining in low disease activity or remission. CONCLUSION The results of this SLR, together with one SLR on safety of DMARD and one on glucocorticoids, informed the taskforce of the 2022 update of the EULAR recommendations for pharmacological management of RA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Kerschbaumer
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexandre Sepriano
- CHRC Campus Nova Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sytske Anne Bergstra
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Josef S Smolen
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Christopher John Edwards
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven and Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Savia de Souza
- Patient Research Partner Network, European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Janet E Pope
- Schulich School of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Japan
| | - Kimme L Hyrich
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, The University of Manchester and NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Kevin L Winthrop
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Daniel Aletaha
- Department of Medicine III, Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tanja A Stamm
- Section for Outcomes Research, Centre for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jan W Schoones
- Walaeus Library, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Robert B M Landewé
- Amsterdam Rheumatology Center, AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Buttgereit F, Kvien TK. Controversies in rheumatology: maintenance therapy with low-dose glucocorticoids in rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2022; 62:35-41. [PMID: 35713511 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the use of glucocorticoids in clinical medicine, the risk-benefit ratio of these still very important drugs has been debated. There is no doubt that they produce many desirable therapeutic effects quickly and reliably. However, their potential to cause adverse effects, especially with prolonged use in high doses, limits their applicability. We discuss the arguments against and in favour of maintenance therapy with low-dose glucocorticoids in patients with RA, and present recent studies, assessments and conclusions on this question.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tore K Kvien
- Division of Rheumatology and Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pazmino S, Lovik A, Boonen A, De Cock D, Stouten V, Joly J, Doumen M, Bertrand D, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. New indicator for discordance between patient-reported and traditional disease activity outcomes in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2022; 62:108-115. [PMID: 35416951 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To unravel disease impact in early RA by separately quantifying patient-reported (PRF), clinical (CF) and laboratory (LF) factors. We propose a new indicator, the discordance score (DS), for early identification and prediction of patient's unmet needs and of future achievement of sustained remission (SR) and RA-related quality of life (QoL). METHODS Factor-scores obtained by factor analysis in the CareRA trial, allowed to compute DS, reflecting the difference between PRF and the mean of CF and LF. Improvement from baseline to week 104 (%) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) across time points per factor-score were calculated and compared between patients achieving/not achieving sustained (week 16-104) remission (DAS28CRP < 2.6) with ANOVA. Logistic and linear regressions were used to predict SR based on previous factor and discordance scores, and QoL at year 1 and 2 based on DS at week 16. RESULTS PRF, CF and LF scores improved rapidly within 8 weeks. PRF improved 57%, CF 90% and LF 27%, in those achieving SR, compared with 32% (PRF: P = 0.13), 77% (CF: P < 0.001) and 9% (LF: P = 0.36) in patients not achieving SR. Patients achieving SR had an AUC of 15.7, 3.4 and 4.8 for PRF, CF and LF, respectively, compared with 33.2, 10.1 and 7.2 in participants not achieving SR (P < 0.001 for all). Early discordance was associated with later factor scores, QoL and self-efficacy. CONCLUSIONS All factor scores improved rapidly, especially in patients achieving sustained remission. Patient-reported burden improved less. Discordance scores could help predicting the need for additional non-pharmacological interventions to achieve sustained remission and decrease disease impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre
| | - Anikó Lovik
- I-BioStat, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annelies Boonen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Maastricht University Medical Centre.,Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre.,Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, University of Leuven
| | - Veerle Stouten
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre
| | - Johan Joly
- Division of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michaël Doumen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre.,Division of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre.,Division of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Doumen M, Pazmino S, Bertrand D, De Cock D, Joly J, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Longitudinal trajectories of fatigue in early RA: the role of inflammation, perceived disease impact and early treatment response. Ann Rheum Dis 2022; 81:1385-1391. [PMID: 35725296 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2022-222517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is common in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We aimed to explore its longitudinal course, predictors and association with disease activity in early RA. METHODS Data came from the 2-year treat-to-target trial CareRA (Care in early RA) and its 3-year extension. Fatigue was measured on Visual Analogue Scale, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory and Short Form-36 (SF-36) vitality. Longitudinal fatigue trajectories were identified with multivariate growth mixture modelling. Early predictors of fatigue and the association of fatigue and its trajectories with disease activity and clinical/psychosocial outcomes were studied with linear mixed models and multilevel mediation. RESULTS We included 356 and 244 patients in the 2-year and 5-year analyses, respectively. Four fatigue trajectories were identified: rapid, gradual, transient improvement and early deterioration, including 10%, 14%, 56% and 20% of patients. Worse pain, mental health and emotional functioning were seen in the early deterioration group. Higher pain, patient global assessment (PGA) and disability (Health Assessment Questionnaire), lower SF-36 mental components, and fewer swollen joints at baseline predicted higher fatigue over 5 years, while early disease remission strongly improved 5-year fatigue. The association between Simple Disease Activity Index and fatigue was mediated by PGA, pain, mental health and sleep quality. CONCLUSIONS Although fatigue evolves dynamically over time in early RA, most patients do not achieve sustained fatigue improvement despite intensive disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy. Higher 5-year fatigue levels were seen in patients with more perceived disease impact and fewer swollen joints at baseline. Conversely, early inflammatory disease control strongly improved long-term fatigue, pointing towards an early window of opportunity to prevent persistent fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Doumen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium .,Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Public Health, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Johan Joly
- Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Shuai Z, Zheng S, Wang K, Wang J, Leung PSC, Xu B. Reestablish immune tolerance in rheumatoid arthritis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1012868. [PMID: 36248797 PMCID: PMC9561630 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1012868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic progressive autoimmune disease. Despite the wide use of conventional synthetic, targeted and biologic disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to control its radiological progress, nearly all DMARDs are immunologically non-selective and do not address the underlying immunological mechanisms of RA. Patients with RA often need to take various DMARDs long-term or even lifelong and thus, face increased risks of infection, tumor and other adverse reactions. It is logical to modulate the immune disorders and restore immune balance in patients with RA by restoring immune tolerance. Indeed, approaches based on stem cell transplantation, tolerogenic dendritic cells (tolDCs), and antigen-based tolerogenic vaccination are under active investigation, and some have already transformed from wet bench research to clinical investigation during the last decade. Among them, clinical trials on stem cell therapy, especially mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation are most investigated and followed by tolDCs in RA patients. On the other hand, despite active laboratory investigations on the use of RA-specific peptide-/protein-based tolerogenic vaccines for T cell, clinical studies on RA patients are much limited. Overall, the preliminary results of these clinical studies are promising and encouraging, demonstrating their safety and effectiveness in the rebalancing of T cell subsets; particular, the recovery of RA-specific Treg with increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines and reduced proinflammatory cytokines. Future studies should focus on the optimization of transplanted stem cells, the preparation of tolDCs, and tolerogenic vaccines with RA-specific protein or peptide, including their dosage, course, and route of administration with well-coordinated multi-center randomized clinical control researches. With the progress of experimental and clinical studies, generating and restoring RA-specific immune tolerance may bring revolutionary changes to the clinical management of RA in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziqiang Shuai
- Department of Sports Injury and Arthroscopic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Shuang Zheng
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Kang Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Xu, ; Patrick S. C. Leung, ; Jian Wang,
| | - Patrick S. C. Leung
- Division of Rheumatology/Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Bin Xu, ; Patrick S. C. Leung, ; Jian Wang,
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Sports Injury and Arthroscopic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Xu, ; Patrick S. C. Leung, ; Jian Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Exosomes as a Novel Anti-Inflammatory Agent and the Current Therapeutic Targets for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071725. [PMID: 35885030 PMCID: PMC9312519 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic inflammatory joint disorder, may not respond adequately to current RA treatments. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) elicit several immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects and, thus, have therapeutic potential. Specifically, adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC)-based RA therapy may have considerable potency in modulating the immune response, and human adipose tissue is abundant and easy to obtain. Paracrine factors, such as exosomes (Exos), contribute to ADSCs’ immunomodulatory function. ADSC-Exo-based treatment can reproduce ADSCs’ immunomodulatory function and overcome the limitations of traditional cell therapy. ADSC-Exos combined with current drug therapies may provide improved therapeutic effects. Using ADSC-Exos, instead of ADSCs, to treat RA may be a promising cell-free treatment strategy. This review summarizes the current knowledge of medical therapies, ADSC-based therapy, and ADSC-Exos for RA and discusses the anti-inflammatory properties of ADSCs and ADSC-Exos. Finally, this review highlights the expanding role and potential immunomodulatory activity of ADSC-Exos in patients with RA.
Collapse
|
16
|
van Ouwerkerk L, Palmowski A, Nevins IS, Buttgereit F, Verschueren P, Smolen JS, Landewé RB, Bijlsma JJ, Kerschbaumer A, Westhovens R, Huizinga TW, Allaart CF, Bergstra SA. Systematic literature review of observational cohorts and clinical trials into the success rate of glucocorticoid discontinuation after their use as bridging therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2022; 81:937-943. [PMID: 35470162 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2022-222338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the success rate of glucocorticoid (GC) discontinuation during follow-up in observational cohorts and clinical trials using temporary GC as part of initial therapy ('bridging') in newly diagnosed patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS Systematic literature searches were conducted to identify observational cohorts and clinical trials including patients with RA treated with initial GC bridging therapy, defined as discontinuation of GC within 1 year. Patient percentages still using GC were considered the reverse of successful discontinuation. Random effects meta-analyses were performed stratified by time point. RESULTS The scoping literature search for observational cohort studies could not identify studies answering the research question. The literature search for clinical trials identified 7160 abstracts, resulting in 10 included studies, with varying type and dose of GC and varying tapering schedules, of which 4 reported sufficient data on GC discontinuation or use after the bridging phase. The pooled proportion of patients who were still or again using GC was 22% (95% CI 8% to 37%, based on four trials) at 12 months and 10% at 24 months (95% CI -1 to 22, based on two trials). Heterogeneity was substantial (I²≥65%). CONCLUSION The success rate of GC discontinuation after bridging as part of initial treatment of RA has been described in a limited number of studies. Reports on observational cohorts did not answer the research question. In clinical trials, protocolised discontinuation was mostly successful, although 22% of the patients who started GC bridging therapy still or again used GC at 12 months, and 10% at 24 months.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andriko Palmowski
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isabell S Nevins
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Josef S Smolen
- Rheumatology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Robert Bm Landewé
- Amsterdam Rheumatology Center, AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Rheumatology, Zuyderland Medical Centre Heerlen, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes Jw Bijlsma
- Department of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - René Westhovens
- Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Wj Huizinga
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelia F Allaart
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hohenschurz-Schmidt D, Kleykamp BA, Draper-Rodi J, Vollert J, Chan J, Ferguson M, McNicol E, Phalip J, Evans SR, Turk DC, Dworkin RH, Rice AS. Pragmatic trials of pain therapies: a systematic review of methods. Pain 2022; 163:21-46. [PMID: 34490854 PMCID: PMC8675058 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Pragmatic randomised clinical trials aim to directly inform clinical or health policy decision making. Here, we systematically review methods and design of pragmatic trials of pain therapies to examine methods, identify common challenges, and areas for improvement. Seven databases were searched for pragmatic randomised controlled clinical trials that assessed pain treatment in a clinical population of adults reporting pain. All screening steps and data extractions were performed twice. Data were synthesised descriptively, and correlation analyses between prespecified trial features and PRECIS-2 (PRagmatic-Explanatory Continuum Indicator Summary 2) ratings and attrition were performed. Protocol registration: PROSPERO-ID CRD42020178954. Of 57 included trials, only 21% assessed pharmacological interventions, the remainder physical, surgical, psychological, or self-management pain therapies. Three-quarters of the trials were comparative effectiveness designs, often conducted in multiple centres (median: 5; Q1/3: 1, 9.25) and with a median sample size of 234 patients at randomization (Q1/3: 135.5; 363.5). Although most trials recruited patients with chronic pain, reporting of pain duration was poor and not well described. Reporting was comprehensive for most general items, while often deficient for specific pragmatic aspects. Average ratings for pragmatism were highest for treatment adherence flexibility and clinical relevance of outcome measures. They were lowest for patient recruitment methods and extent of follow-up measurements and appointments. Current practice in pragmatic trials of pain treatments can be improved in areas such as patient recruitment and reporting of methods, analysis, and interpretation of data. These improvements will facilitate translatability to other real-world settings-the purpose of pragmatic trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bethea A. Kleykamp
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Jerry Draper-Rodi
- Research Center, University College of Osteopathy, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jan Vollert
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Chan
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - McKenzie Ferguson
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL, United States
| | - Ewan McNicol
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, MCPHS University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jules Phalip
- European School of Osteopathy, Maidstone, United Kingdom
| | - Scott R. Evans
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Biostatistics Center, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Dennis C. Turk
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Robert H. Dworkin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Andrew S.C. Rice
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Doumen M, De Cock D, Pazmino S, Bertrand D, Joly J, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Treatment response and several patient-reported outcomes are early determinants of future self-efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Res Ther 2021; 23:269. [PMID: 34706771 PMCID: PMC8549201 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-021-02651-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Self-efficacy, or patients’ confidence in their ability to control disease and its consequences, was recently prioritised in EULAR recommendations for inflammatory arthritis self-management strategies. However, it remains unclear which factors influence self-efficacy in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods Data were analysed from the 2-year RCT Care in early RA (CareRA), which studied remission-induction treatment regimens for early RA. Participants completed the Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale (ASES), Short-Form 36 (SF-36), Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R), Utrecht Coping List (UCL), RAQoL and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Depending on time to first remission (DAS28-CRP < 2.6) and persistence of remission, treatment response was defined as persistent response, secondary failure, delayed response, late response or non-response. The association between ASES scores and clinical/psychosocial factors was explored with Spearman correlation and multivariate linear mixed models. Baseline predictors of week 104 ASES were identified with exploratory linear regression followed by multiple regression of significant predictors adjusted for DAS28-CRP, HAQ, treatment arm, treatment response, cumulative CRP/SJC28 and demographic/serologic confounders. Results All 379 patients had a recent diagnosis of RA and were DMARD-naïve at study initiation. Most patients were women (69%) and RF/ACPA-positive (66%), and the mean (SD) age was 52 (13) years. For all tested outcome measures, better perceived health correlated with higher self-efficacy. While patient-reported factors (HAQ, SF-36, RAQoL, IPQ-R, pain, fatigue and patient’s global assessment) showed moderate/strong correlations with ASES scores, correlations with physician-reported factors (physician’s global assessment, SJC28), TJC28 and DAS28-CRP were weak. Only more favourable outcomes on patient-reported factors and DAS28-CRP were associated with higher ASES scores at each time point. An earlier, persistent treatment response predicted higher ASES scores at both weeks 52 and 104. Significant baseline predictors of week 104 ASES included HAQ; SF-36 mental component score, vitality, mental health and role emotional; IPQ-R illness coherence, treatment control, emotional representations and consequences; UCL Passive reacting; and the RAQoL. Conclusions Patient-reported outcomes and treatment response were early determinants of long-term self-efficacy in an early RA trial. These results provide further relevance for the window of opportunity in an early treat-to-target strategy and could help to timely identify patients who might benefit from self-management interventions. Trial registration EudraCT 2008-007225-39 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13075-021-02651-3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Doumen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, ON IV Herestraat 49 - bus 805, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, ON IV Herestraat 49 - bus 805, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, ON IV Herestraat 49 - bus 805, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, ON IV Herestraat 49 - bus 805, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Joly
- Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, ON IV Herestraat 49 - bus 805, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, ON IV Herestraat 49 - bus 805, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Atsumi T, Tanaka Y, Matsubara T, Amano K, Ishiguro N, Sugiyama E, Yamaoka K, Westhovens R, Ching DWT, Messina OD, Burmester GR, Bartok B, Pechonkina A, Kondo A, Yin Z, Guo Y, Tasset C, Sundy JS, Takeuchi T. Efficacy and safety of filgotinib alone and in combination with methotrexate in Japanese patients with active rheumatoid arthritis and limited or no prior exposure to methotrexate: Subpopulation analyses of 24-week data of a global phase 3 study (FINCH 3). Mod Rheumatol 2021; 32:273-283. [PMID: 34910203 DOI: 10.1093/mr/roab021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy and safety of filgotinib for Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and limited or no prior methotrexate (MTX) exposure. METHODS Data up to 24 weeks were analysed for 71 Japanese patients from a 52-week global Phase 3 study. Patients with RA and limited or no prior MTX exposure were randomised in a 2:1:1:2 ratio to filgotinib 200 mg plus MTX, filgotinib 100 mg plus MTX, filgotinib 200 mg, or MTX. Maximum MTX dose was 15 mg/week. Primary endpoint was proportion achieving 20% improvement in American College of Rheumatology criteria (ACR20) at Week 24. RESULTS Week 24 ACR20 rates in Japanese patients were 82.6%, 90.9%, 83.3%, and 80.0% for filgotinib 200 mg plus MTX, filgotinib 100 mg plus MTX, filgotinib 200 mg, and MTX, respectively. Greater ACR20 rates with filgotinib vs MTX occurred at Week 2. Greater proportions receiving filgotinib vs MTX achieved DAS28-CRP <2.6 at Weeks 12 and 24. Adverse event rates were comparable across treatments and between the Japanese and overall populations. CONCLUSIONS While Week 24 ACR20 rates were similar, filgotinib provided faster responses and higher remission rates vs MTX. In Japanese patients with RA and limited or no prior MTX exposure, filgotinib was generally well tolerated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Atsumi
- Department of Rheumatology, Endocrinology and Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yoshiya Tanaka
- The First Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Matsubara
- Department of Orthopedics, Matsubara Mayflower Hospital, 944-25 Fujita, Kato, Japan
| | - Koichi Amano
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Hidaka, Japan
| | | | - Eiji Sugiyama
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kunihiro Yamaoka
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Division of Rheumatology, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Daniel W T Ching
- Timaru Medical Specialists Limited, South Canterbury, New Zealand
| | | | - Gerd R Burmester
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Free University and Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Zhaoyu Yin
- Gilead Sciences Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | - Ying Guo
- Gilead Sciences Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | | | - John S Sundy
- Gilead Sciences Inc., Foster City, CA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.,Aichi Developmental Disability Center, Kasugai, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sherbini AA, Sharma SD, Gwinnutt JM, Hyrich KL, Verstappen SMM. Prevalence and predictors of adverse events with methotrexate mono- and combination-therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:4001-4017. [PMID: 33909898 PMCID: PMC8410011 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic review aims to summarize rates of adverse events (AEs) in patients with RA or inflammatory arthritis starting MTX as monotherapy or in combination with other csDMARDs, and to identify reported predictors of AEs. METHODS Three databases were searched for studies reporting AEs in MTX-naïve patients with RA. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational cohort studies were included. Prevalence rates of AEs were pooled using random effects meta-analysis, stratified by study design. RESULTS Forty-six articles (34 RCTs and 12 observational studies) were identified. The pooled prevalence of total AEs was 80.1% in RCTs (95% CI: 73.5, 85.9), compared with 23.1% in observational studies (95% CI: 12.3, 36.0). The pooled prevalence of serious AEs was 9.5% in RCTs (95% CI: 7.4, 11.7), and 2.1% in observational studies (95% CI: 1.0, 3.4). MTX discontinuation due to AEs was higher in observational studies (15.5%, 95% CI: 9.6, 22.3) compared with RCTs (6.7%, 95% CI: 4.7, 8.9). Gastrointestinal events were the most commonly reported AEs (pooled prevalence: 32.7%, 95% CI: 18.5, 48.7). Five studies examined predictors of AEs. RF status, BMI and HAQ score were associated with MTX discontinuation due to AEs; ACPA negativity, smoking and elevated creatinine were associated with increased risk of elevated liver enzymes. CONCLUSION The review provides an up-to-date overview of the prevalence of AEs associated with MTX in patients with RA. The findings should be communicated to patients to help them make informed choices prior to commencing MTX.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad A Sherbini
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester
| | - Seema D Sharma
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester
| | - James M Gwinnutt
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester
| | - Kimme L Hyrich
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Suzanne M M Verstappen
- Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, The University of Manchester
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pazmino S, Boonen A, De Cock D, Stouten V, Joly J, Bertrand D, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Short-term glucocorticoids reduce risk of chronic NSAID and analgesic use in early methotrexate-treated rheumatoid arthritis patients with favourable prognosis: subanalysis of the CareRA randomised controlled trial. RMD Open 2021; 7:rmdopen-2021-001615. [PMID: 34031262 PMCID: PMC8149441 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2021-001615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and analgesic use in early rheumatoid arthritis (eRA) patients with a favourable risk profile initiating methotrexate (MTX) with or without glucocorticoid (GC) bridging. Methods Patients with eRA (≤1 year) and favourable risk profile (no erosions, negative rheumatoid factor and anticitrullinated protein antibodiesor low disease activity) in the 2-year CareRA trial were randomised to MTX 15 mg with a step-down GC scheme (COBRA Slim), or MTX without oral GCs, Tight-Step-Up (TSU). Used analgesics were recorded, including frequency, start/end date and indication. Chronic intake (≥90 consecutive days in trial) of NSAIDs, acetaminophen, opioids including tramadol and antidepressants for the indication of musculoskeletal (MSK) pain was considered. Treatments were compared using χ2 and analysis of variance with Holm’s correction for multiple testing. Results In total, 43 patients were randomised to COBRA Slim and 47 to TSU. At study inclusion, 33/43 (77%) of patients in the COBRA Slim and 32/47 (68%) in the TSU arm had been using analgesics (p=0.5). During the trial, 67 NSAID and analgesics were used for MSK pain in 26/43 (60%) COBRA Slim patients of which 9/43 (21%) daily chronically (DC), while 107 NSAID and analgesics were used in 43/47 (92%) TSU patients, of which 25/47 (53%) DC. The total number of patients on NSAID and analgesics at any time during the study (p<0.01) and chronically (p=0.01) was significantly different between treatment arms. Number of patients on DC NSAIDs was also significantly different (p<0.01) between COBRA Slim 6/43 (14%) and TSU 19/47 (40%). Conclusion In eRA patients considered to have a favourable prognosis, initial oral GC bridging resulted in lower chronic NSAID and analgesic use. Trial registration number NCT01172639.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Annelies Boonen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, Limburg, The Netherlands.,Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Limburg, The Netherlands
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Veerle Stouten
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Johan Joly
- Department of Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven Gasthuisberg Campus, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Delphine Bertrand
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Department of Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven Gasthuisberg Campus, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Department of Rheumatology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven Gasthuisberg Campus, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Roubille C, Coffy A, Rincheval N, Dougados M, Flipo RM, Daurès JP, Combe B. Ten-year analysis of the risk of severe outcomes related to low-dose glucocorticoids in early rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:3738-3746. [PMID: 33320245 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the 10-year tolerability profile of glucocorticoids (GC) use in patients with early RA. METHODS Analysis of 10-year outcome from the early arthritis ESPOIR cohort. Patients were stratified in two groups, without or with GC treatment at least once during their follow-up. The primary outcome was a composite of deaths, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), severe infections and fractures. The weighted Cox time-dependent analysis model was used with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) propensity score method. RESULTS Among the 608 patients [480 women, mean age of 47.5 (12.1) years], 397 (65%) received low-dose GC [median 1.9 mg/day (IQR 0.6-4.2), mean cumulative prednisone dose 8468 mg (8376), mean duration 44.6 months (40.1)]. In univariate analysis, over 95 total events (10 deaths, 18 CVDs, 32 fractures and 35 severe infections), patients taking GC experienced more events (n = 71) than those without GC (n = 24) (P =0.035). Highest cumulative exposure of GC (≥8.4 g) was associated with highest risk of occurrence of the primary outcome (24.3%, P =0.007), CVDs (7.9%, P =0.001) and severe infections (9.9%, P =0.024). The risk of events over time was significantly associated with GC, age, hypertension and ESR. The risk associated with GC treatment increased between the first follow-up visit [hazard ratio (HR) at 1 year = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.90] and 10 years (HR = 6.83, 95% CI: 2.29, 20.35). CONCLUSION The 10-year analysis of this prospective early RA cohort supports a dose and time-dependent impact of low-dose GC treatment, with a long-term high risk of severe outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03666091).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Roubille
- Department of Internal Medicine, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France.,PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, INSERM U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, Montpellier, France
| | - Amandine Coffy
- Statistiques, University Institute of Clinical Research EA2415 and Clinique Beausoleil, Montpellier cedex, France
| | - Nathalie Rincheval
- Statistiques, University Institute of Clinical Research EA2415 and Clinique Beausoleil, Montpellier cedex, France.,Rheumatology Department, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Maxime Dougados
- Medicine Faculty and Rheumatology B Department, Paris-Descartes University, UPRES-EA 4058; APHP, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - René-Marc Flipo
- Department of Rheumatology, Roger Salengro Hospital, Lille, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Daurès
- Statistiques, University Institute of Clinical Research EA2415 and Clinique Beausoleil, Montpellier cedex, France
| | - Bernard Combe
- Rheumatology Department, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Verschueren P, Stouten V, Westhovens R, De Cock D, Pazmino S. Comment on: what is the best treatment for early rheumatoid arthritis? Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:e177-e178. [PMID: 32176299 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Verschueren
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Stouten
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven
| | - René Westhovens
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven.,Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bredemeier M, Ranza R, Kakehasi AM, Ranzolin A, da Silveira IG, Ribeiro ACM, Titton DC, Hayata ALS, Carvalho HMS, Kahlow BS, Fernandes V, Louzada P, Bértolo MB, Duarte ÂLBP, Macieira JC, Miranda JRS, Pinheiro GRC, Teodoro RB, Pinheiro MM, Valim V, Pereira IA, Sauma MFLC, de Castro GRW, da Rocha LF, Studart SAS, Gazzeta MO, da Silveira LG, Lupo CM, Laurindo IMM. Safety of the Methotrexate-leflunomide Combination in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results of a Multicentric, Registry-based, Cohort Study (BiobadaBrasil). J Rheumatol 2021; 48:1519-1527. [PMID: 33934077 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.201248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the safety of the methotrexate (MTX)-leflunomide (LEF) combination in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), comparing it with other therapeutic schemes involving conventional synthetic (cs-) and biologic (b-) disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi). METHODS Patients with RA starting a treatment course with a csDMARD (without previous use of bDMARD or JAKi) or their first bDMARD/JAKi were followed up in a registry-based, multicentric cohort study in Brazil (BiobadaBrasil). The primary outcome was the incidence of serious adverse events (SAEs); secondary outcomes included serious infections. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models and propensity score matching analysis (PSMA) were used for statistical comparisons. RESULTS In total, 1671 patients (5349 patient-years [PY]) were enrolled; 452 patients (1537 PY) received MTX + LEF. The overall incidence of SAEs was 5.6 per 100 PY. The hazard of SAEs for MTX + LEF was not higher than for MTX or LEF (adjusted HR [aHR] 1.00, 95% CI 0.76-1.31, P = 0.98). MTX + LEF presented a lower hazard of SAEs (aHR 0.56, 95% CI 0.36-0.88, P = 0.01) and infectious SAEs (aHR 0.48, 95% CI 0.25-0.94, P = 0.03) than bDMARDs/JAKi with MTX or LEF. MTX + LEF presented lower hazard of SAEs than MTX + sulfasalazine (SSZ; aHR 0.33, 95% CI 0.16-0.65, P = 0.002). Analysis using PSMA confirmed the results obtained with traditional multivariate Cox analysis. CONCLUSION In our study, MTX + LEF presented a relatively good overall safety profile in comparison to MTX + SSZ and schemes involving advanced therapies in RA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Bredemeier
- M. Bredemeier, MD, PhD, Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Grupo Hospitalar Conceição, Porto Alegre;
| | - Roberto Ranza
- R. Ranza, MD, PhD, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia
| | - Adriana M Kakehasi
- A.M. Kakehasi, MD, PhD, Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte
| | - Aline Ranzolin
- A. Ranzolin, MD, PhD, A.L. Duarte, MD, PhD, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife
| | - Inês G da Silveira
- I.G. da Silveira, MD, PhD, Hospital São Lucas, Faculdade de Medicina da PUCRS, Porto Algere
| | - Ana C M Ribeiro
- A.C. Ribeiro, MD, PhD, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da USP (HCFMUSP), São Paulo
| | - David C Titton
- D.C. Titton, MD, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba
| | | | | | - Bárbara S Kahlow
- B.S. Kahlow, MD, Hospital Universitário Evangélico de Curitiba, Curitiba
| | - Vander Fernandes
- V. Fernandes, MD, PhD, Hospital Geral Universitário de Cuiabá, Cuiabá
| | - Paulo Louzada
- P. Louzada Jr., MD, PhD, Faculdade de Medicina USP, Ribeirão Preto
| | - Manoel B Bértolo
- M. Bértolo, MD, PhD, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas
| | - Ângela L B P Duarte
- A. Ranzolin, MD, PhD, A.L. Duarte, MD, PhD, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife
| | | | - José R S Miranda
- J.R. Miranda, MD, Artrocenter Clínica Médica de Taubaté, Taubaté
| | | | - Reginaldo B Teodoro
- R.B. Teodoro, MD, Hospital da Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba
| | | | - Valéria Valim
- V. Valim, MD, PhD, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória
| | - Ivânio A Pereira
- I.A. Pereira, MD, PhD, Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis
| | | | | | - Laurindo F da Rocha
- L.F. da Rocha Jr., MD, PhD, Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira (IMIP), Recife
| | | | - Morgana O Gazzeta
- M.O. Gazzeta, MD, Santa Casa de Misericórdia do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro
| | - Leticia G da Silveira
- L.G. da Silveira, MS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul/Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre
| | - Cristiano M Lupo
- C.M. Lupo, MD, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto
| | - Ieda M M Laurindo
- I.M. Laurindo, MD, PhD, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Destiani DP, Naja S, Dewi S, Rahmadi AR, Sulaiman SAS, Abdulah R. Efficacy of methotrexate in reducing the risk of bone erosion in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Osteoporos Int 2021; 32:805-816. [PMID: 33210179 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-020-05743-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Even though new drugs for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been developed, methotrexate (MTX) remains a commonly used drug for RA management. In addition to monitoring disease activity during RA treatment, bone erosion should be closely assessed throughout long-term RA management. In this review article, we present a systematic review of MTX effectiveness in reducing the risk of bone erosion. We reviewed randomized controlled trial studies that involved MTX monotherapy or MTX in combination with placebo. Evaluation of the progression of bone erosion was examined by radiographic assessment such as total Sharp score (TSS) or van der Heijde score (SvdH or vdH TSS), joint space narrowing (JSN), erosion score (ERO), and proportion of radiographic nonprogressors. Several key factors were found to influence the response to MTX treatment, such as gene polymorphism. The exact mechanism of the prevention of bone erosion by MTX remains unclear, which warrants future investigations. The variability of RA disease activity in study subjects resulted in variations in the results reported by individual studies. Collective analysis suggests that MTX could slow down the progression of bone erosion based on a radiographic score of less than 0.5-1/year.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D P Destiani
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Raya Bandung Sumedang KM. 21, Jatinangor, Bandung, 45363, Indonesia
- Center of Excellence in Higher Education for Pharmaceutical Care Innovation, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - S Naja
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Raya Bandung Sumedang KM. 21, Jatinangor, Bandung, 45363, Indonesia
| | - S Dewi
- Immunology Study Center, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - A R Rahmadi
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - S A S Sulaiman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- Advance Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - R Abdulah
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Raya Bandung Sumedang KM. 21, Jatinangor, Bandung, 45363, Indonesia.
- Center of Excellence in Higher Education for Pharmaceutical Care Innovation, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Van der Elst K, Verschueren P, De Cock D, De Groef A, Stouten V, Pazmino S, Vriezekolk J, Joly J, Moons P, Westhovens R. One in five patients with rapidly and persistently controlled early rheumatoid arthritis report poor well-being after 1 year of treatment. RMD Open 2021; 6:rmdopen-2019-001146. [PMID: 32371432 PMCID: PMC7299515 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2019-001146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify and characterise a subgroup of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) reporting not feeling well 1 year after treatment initiation despite achieving optimal disease control according to current treatment standards. METHODS This observational study included participants of the Care in early RA trial with a rapid and sustained response (DAS28CRP<2.6) from week 16 until year 1 after starting the first RA treatment. Feeling well was assessed at year 1, using five patient-reported outcomes (PROs): pain, fatigue, physical functioning, RA-related quality of life and sleep quality. K-means clustering assigned patients to a cluster based on these PROs. Cohen's d effect size estimated cluster differences at treatment initiation and week 16, for the five clustering PROs, coping behaviour, illness perceptions and social support. RESULTS Analyses revealed three clusters. Of 140 patients, 77.9% were assigned to the 'concordant to disease activity' cluster, 9.3% to the 'dominant fatigue' cluster and 12.9% to the 'dominant pain and fatigue' cluster. Large differences in pain and fatigue reporting were found at week 16 when comparing the 'concordant' with the 'dominant pain and fatigue' or the 'dominant fatigue' cluster. Small differences in reporting were found for the other PROs. Illness perceptions and coping style also differed in the 'concordant' cluster. CONCLUSIONS Although most patients reported PRO scores in concordance with their well-controlled disease activity, one in five persistent treatment responders reported not feeling well at year 1. These patients reported higher pain and fatigue, and different illness perceptions and coping strategies early in the disease course.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick Verschueren
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium .,Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diederik De Cock
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - An De Groef
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Stouten
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofia Pazmino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johanna Vriezekolk
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Johan Joly
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip Moons
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Institute of Health and Care Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - René Westhovens
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Development and Regeneration, Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Xie W, Huang H, Li G, Hao Y, Gui Y, Wang Y, Deng X, Zhao J, Geng Y, Ji L, Zhang X, Song Z, Zhang Z. Dynamical trajectory of glucocorticoids tapering and discontinuation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis commencing glucocorticoids with csDMARDs: a real-world data from 2009 to 2020. Ann Rheum Dis 2021; 80:997-1003. [PMID: 33811037 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-220112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To unravel the dynamical trajectory and features of glucocorticoids (GC) tapering and discontinuation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) commencing GC with concomitant conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs). METHODS We used data from longitudinal real-world Treat-to-TARget in RA cohort. Patients with RA who started GC and contaminant csDMARDs therapy were included. The changes in GC dose and disease activity were evaluated. GC discontinuation rate was analysed using Kaplan-Meier analysis. The relapse profile within 6 months after GC discontinuation was also analysed. RESULTS A total of 207 patients with RA were included. During a median follow-up of 38.6 months, 124 patients discontinued GC. The median prednisolone dose of 10 (5-10) mg/day at initiation was reduced by 50% in the first 6 months and then more slowly, to zero by 48 months eventually. The cumulative probabilities of GC discontinuation were 9.7%, 26.6%, 48.0% and 58.6% at month 6, years 1, 2 and 3, with calculated median time to GC cessation of 27 months. In 110 DMARD-naïve patients, the corresponding cumulative probabilities of GC discontinuation were, respectively, 12.7%, 30.0%, 50.9% and 60.6%, with calculated median time to GC cessation of 24 months. Of the 124 patients who discontinued GC, adding other csDMARDs or concomitant csDMARDs increment was documented in 28.2% of them. Approximately half of 124 patients were in clinical remission at GC discontinuation. Within 6 months after GC withdrawal, 79.1% (91/115) of patients maintained relapse free. CONCLUSIONS In patients with RA commencing GC besides csDMARDs, GC is feasibly discontinued with favourable control of disease activity in real-life setting, mostly without short-term flare. But the withdrawal time is far from reaching the recommended time frame, indicating the gap between real-world practice and current guidelines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Xie
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Guangtao Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanjie Hao
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanni Gui
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xuerong Deng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Geng
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - LanLan Ji
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhibo Song
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuoli Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Feng C, Chen R, Wang K, Wen C, Xu Z. Chinese traditional medicine (GuiZhi-ShaoYao-ZhiMu decoction) as an add-on medication to methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2021; 12:2040622321993438. [PMID: 33633825 PMCID: PMC7887670 DOI: 10.1177/2040622321993438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background GuiZhi-ShaoYao-ZhiMu decoction (GSZD), a traditional Chinese herbal medication, has been frequently used as an add-on medication to methotrexate (MTX) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment in China. This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of adding GSZD to MTX for RA treatment. Methods We performed a systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (all databases) for English-language studies and WanFang, VIP, and CNKI for Chinese-language studies up to 28 July 2020. Data from selected studies, mainly the response rates and rate of adverse events (AEs), were extracted independently by two authors, and a random-effects model (Mantel-Haenszel method) was used for the meta-analysis. Results A total of 14 randomized controlled trials and 1224 patients were included (623 patients in the GSZD + MTX group and 601 patients in the MTX group). For efficacy, the meta-analysis found that combining GSZD with MTX increased the effective rate [relative risk (RR) = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18-1.30, based on 1069 patients], defined as >30% efficacy, American College of Rheumatology 20, or a decrease of disease activity score 28 >0.6. Adding GSZD reduced the swollen and tender joint counts, the duration of morning stiffness, the levels of C-reactive protein and rheumatoid factor, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The adjuvant therapeutic effect of GSZD was independent of the dose of MTX or the combined utilization of other drugs in both groups. For safety, adding GSZD was associated with a lower rate of total AEs (RR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.26-0.83, based on 615 patients) and gastrointestinal tract AEs (RR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.24-0.88, based on 537 patients). Conclusion Combining GSZD with MTX may be a more efficacious and safer strategy for treating RA compared with MTX alone. Further large studies are warranted to investigate the long-term efficacy and safety of adding GSZD to MTX for RA treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Feng
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rongrong Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Keer Wang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengping Wen
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhenghao Xu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Binwen Road 548, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Pazmino S, Lovik A, Boonen A, De Cock D, Stouten V, Joly J, Bertrand D, Van der Elst K, Westhovens R, Verschueren P. Does Including Pain, Fatigue, and Physical Function When Assessing Patients with Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Provide a Comprehensive Picture of Disease Burden? J Rheumatol 2020; 48:174-178. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.200758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Objective.To explore the possibility of integrating patient-important outcomes like pain, fatigue, and physical function into the evaluation of disease status in early rheumatoid arthritis (ERA) without compromising correct disease activity measurement.Methods.Patients from the 2-year Care in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis (CareRA) trial were included. Pain and fatigue (visual analog scales), Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), standard components of disease activity [swollen/tender joint counts (SJC/TJC), C-reactive protein (CRP) or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), physician (PhGH) and patient (PaGH) global health] were recorded at every visit (n = 10). Pearson correlation and exploratory factor analyses (EFA), using multiple imputation (15×) and outputation (1000×), were performed per timepoint and overall, on standard components of disease activity scores with and without pain, fatigue, and HAQ. Each of the 15,000 datasets was analyzed using EFA with principal component extraction and oblimin rotation to determine which variables belong together.Results.We included 379 patients. EFA on standard composite score components extracted 2 factors with no substantial cross-loadings. Still, pain (0.83), fatigue (0.65), and HAQ (0.59) were strongly correlated with PaGH. When rerunning the EFA with the inclusion of pain, fatigue, and HAQ, the 2-factor model had substantial cross-loadings between factors. However, a 3-factor model was optimal, with Factor 1: patient assessment, Factor 2: clinical assessment (PhGH, SJC, and TJC), and Factor 3: laboratory assessment (ESR/CRP).Conclusion.PaGH, pain, fatigue, and physical function represent a separate aspect of the disease burden of patients with ERA, which could be further explored as a target for care apart from disease activity. [ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01172639].
Collapse
|
31
|
Kerschbaumer A, Sepriano A, Smolen JS, van der Heijde D, Dougados M, van Vollenhoven R, McInnes IB, Bijlsma JWJ, Burmester GR, de Wit M, Falzon L, Landewé R. Efficacy of pharmacological treatment in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic literature research informing the 2019 update of the EULAR recommendations for management of rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:744-759. [PMID: 32033937 PMCID: PMC7286044 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-216656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To inform the 2019 update of the European League against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS A systematic literature research (SLR) to investigate the efficacy of any disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) (conventional synthetic (cs)DMARD, biological (b) and biosimilar DMARD, targeted synthetic (ts)DMARD) or glucocorticoid (GC) therapy in patients with RA was done by searching MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library for articles published between 2016 and 8 March 2019. RESULTS 234 abstracts were selected for detailed assessment, with 136 finally included. They comprised the efficacy of bDMARDs versus placebo or other bDMARDs, efficacy of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors (JAKi) across different patient populations and head-to-head of different bDMARDs versus JAKi or other bDMARDs. Switching of bDMARDs to other bDMARDs or tsDMARDs, strategic trials and tapering studies of bDMARDs, csDMARDs and JAKi were assessed. The drugs evaluated included abatacept, adalimumab, ABT-122, baricitinib, certolizumab pegol, SBI-087, CNTO6785, decernotinib, etanercept, filgotinib, golimumab, GCs, GS-9876, guselkumab, hydroxychloroquine, infliximab, leflunomide, mavrilimumab, methotrexate, olokizumab, otilimab, peficitinib, rituximab, sarilumab, salazopyrine, secukinumab, sirukumab, tacrolimus, tocilizumab, tofacitinib, tregalizumab, upadacitinib, ustekinumab and vobarilizumab. The efficacy of many bDMARDs and tsDMARDs was shown. Switching to another tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) or non-TNFi bDMARDs after TNFi treatment failure is efficacious. Tapering of DMARDs is possible in patients achieving long-standing stringent clinical remission; in patients with residual disease activity (including patients in LDA) the risk of flares is increased during the tapering. Biosimilars are non-inferior to their reference products. CONCLUSION This SLR informed the task force regarding the evidence base of various therapeutic regimen for the development of the update of EULAR's RA management recommendation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandre Sepriano
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- NOVA Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Robert Landewé
- Amsterdam Rheumatology Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
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.
Collapse
|
33
|
Effectiveness of maintenance therapy with methotrexate compared with leflunomide for patients with RA having achieved disease control with both these drugs: results of a predefined sub-analysis of CareRA, a pragmatic RCT. Clin Rheumatol 2020; 39:2593-2601. [PMID: 32166429 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-020-05008-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES Evidence regarding the effectiveness of step-down strategies for patients with well-controlled early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on a combination of methotrexate (MTX) and leflunomide (LEF) is currently lacking. METHOD The Care in early RA (CareRA) trial is a 2-year randomized pragmatic trial comparing different remission induction strategies in treatment-naïve patients with early RA. For this study, we included participants who achieved low disease activity (LDA) (DAS28-CRP ≤ 3.2) between 40 to 52 weeks after starting a combination of MTX, LEF, and a prednisone bridging scheme followed by a treat-to-target approach. Patients were re-randomized to a maintenance monotherapy of either MTX 15 mg weekly or LEF 20 mg daily. Remission rates (DAS28-CRP < 2.6) at week 65 counted from re-randomization, as well as drug retention rates and safety during the 65 weeks of follow-up, were compared. RESULTS Remission rates at week 65 after re-randomization were numerically higher in patients assigned to MTX (29/32; 90.6%) compared with patients on LEF (20/27; 74.1%) (p = 0.091). Of patients assigned to MTX, 60% (19/32) maintained LDA while continuing their assigned monotherapy until week 65 after re-randomization versus 44% (12/27) in the LEF group (p = 0.25). Patients re-randomized to MTX were more frequently in LDA measured by Clinical Disease Activity Index (32/32; 100%) compared with patients on LEF (23/27; 85.2%) (p = 0.024) 65 weeks after re-randomization. According to survival analyses, the probability of maintaining MTX monotherapy was higher (81%) than maintaining LEF monotherapy (55%) for 65 weeks (p = 0.025) after re-randomization. Safety analysis after re-randomization showed a good safety profile in both groups. CONCLUSION MTX monotherapy seems not significantly more efficacious as maintenance treatment compared with LEF monotherapy but has a better retention rate and is well tolerated in early RA patients in LDA after combination therapy with both. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical trials NCT01172639 Key points • Methotrexate should be preferred over leflunomide as maintenance therapy after an initial intensive combination of these two drugs. • Methotrexate shows a better retention rate to leflunomide as maintenance therapy in this context.
Collapse
|
34
|
Pope JE. What is the best treatment for early rheumatoid arthritis? Rheumatology (Oxford) 2019; 58:2086-2088. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Janet E Pope
- Division of Rheumatology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, St Joseph’s Health Care, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|