Insights into the efficacy of golimumab plus methotrexate in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis who discontinued prior anti-tumour necrosis factor therapy: post-hoc analyses from the GO-AFTER study

A Real-World Claims Database Study Assessing Long-Term Persistence with Golimumab Treatment in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Japan

INTRODUCTION

The persistence of golimumab (GLM) treatment in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been evaluated previously, but evidence of long-term real-world use is lacking. This study assessed the long-term persistence of GLM use, its influencing factors, and impact of prior medications in patients with RA in actual clinical practice in Japan.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients with RA using data from a hospital insurance claims database in Japan. The identified patients were stratified as only GLM treatment (naïve), had one biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (bDMARD)/Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor treatment prior to GLM [switch (1)] and had at least two bDMARDs/JAK prior to GLM treatment [switch (≥ 2)]. Patient characteristics were evaluated using descriptive statistics. Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression methods were used to analyze GLM persistence at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years and the associated factors. Treatment differences were compared using a log-rank test.

RESULTS

GLM persistence rate in the naïve group was 58.8%, 32.1%, 21.4%, and 11.4% at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years, respectively. Overall persistence rates in the naïve group were higher than in switch groups. Higher GLM persistence was observed among patients aged 61-75 years and those concomitantly using methotrexate (MTX). Also, women were less likely to discontinue treatment compared to men. Higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score, initial GLM dose of 100 mg, and switch from bDMARDs/JAK inhibitor were related to a lower persistence rate. As a prior medication, infliximab showed the longest persistence for subsequent GLM, and using this as a reference, tocilizumab, sarilumab, and tofacitinib subgroups had significantly shorter persistence, respectively (p = 0.001, 0.025, 0.041).

CONCLUSION

This study presents the long-term real-world results for persistence of GLM and its potential determinants. These most recent and long-term observations demonstrated that GLM and other bDMARDs continue to benefit patients with RA in Japan.

Possible Future Avenues for Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics: Hippo Pathway

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a persistent systemic autoimmune disease with the hallmarks of swelling of the joint, joint tenderness, and progressive joint destruction, which may cause synovial inflammation and pannus as a basic pathological change, resulting in joint malformations and serious disorders. At present, the precise etiology and mechanism of pathogenesis of RA are unknown. The imbalance of immune homeostasis is the origin of RA. Hippo pathway is widely expressed in a range of cell lineages and plays a fundamental role in maintaining the immune steady state and may be involved in the pathogenic mechanism of RA. This study reviews the progress of Hippo pathway and its main members in the pathogenesis of RA from three aspects: regulating the maintenance of autoimmune homeostasis, promoting the pathogenicity of synovial fibroblasts and regulating the differentiation of osteoclasts. The study also presents a new way to recognize the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis, which is favorable for finding a new way for treating the rheumatoid arthritis.

Comparison of drug retention of TNF inhibitors, other biologics and JAK inhibitors in RA patients who discontinued JAK inhibitor therapy

OBJECTIVES

JAK Inhibitors (JAKi) are recommended DMARDs for patients with moderate-to-severe RA who failed first-line therapy with methotrexate. There is a lack of data allowing an evidence-based choice of subsequent DMARD therapy for patients who had discontinued JAKi treatment. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of TNF inhibitor (TNFi) therapy vs JAKi vs other mode of action (OMA) biologic DMARD (bDMARD) in RA patients who were previously treated with a JAKi.

METHODS

RA patients who discontinued JAKi treatment within the Swiss RA registry SCQM were included for this observational prospective cohort study. The primary outcome was drug retention for either TNFi, OMA bDMARD or JAKi. The hazard ratio for treatment discontinuation was calculated adjusting for potential confounders. A descriptive analysis of the reasons for discontinuation was performed.

RESULTS

Four hundred treatment courses of JAKi were included, with a subsequent switch to either JAKi, TNFi or OMA bDMARD. The crude overall drug retention was higher in patients switching to another JAKi as compared with TNFi and comparable to OMA. A significant difference of JAKi vs TNFi persisted after adjusting for potential confounders.

CONCLUSION

In a real-world population of RA patients who discontinued treatment with a JAKi, switching to another JAKi resulted in a higher drug retention than switching to a TNFi. A switch to a second JAKi seems an effective therapeutic option.

EULAR points to consider for the management of difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To develop evidence-based European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) points to consider (PtCs) for the management of difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis (D2T RA).

METHODS

An EULAR Task Force was established comprising 34 individuals: 26 rheumatologists, patient partners and rheumatology experienced health professionals. Two systematic literature reviews addressed clinical questions around diagnostic challenges, and pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic strategies in D2T RA. PtCs were formulated based on the identified evidence and expert opinion. Strength of recommendations (SoR, scale A-D: A typically consistent level 1 studies and D level 5 evidence or inconsistent studies) and level of agreement (LoA, scale 0-10: 0 completely disagree and 10 completely agree) of the PtCs were determined by the Task Force members.

RESULTS

Two overarching principles and 11 PtCs were defined concerning diagnostic confirmation of RA, evaluation of inflammatory disease activity, pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, treatment adherence, functional disability, pain, fatigue, goal setting and self-efficacy and the impact of comorbidities. The SoR varied from level C to level D. The mean LoA with the overarching principles and PtCs was generally high (8.4-9.6).

CONCLUSIONS

These PtCs for D2T RA can serve as a clinical roadmap to support healthcare professionals and patients to deliver holistic management and more personalised pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic strategies. High-quality evidence was scarce. A research agenda was created to guide future research.

Golimumab in adolescents with Crohn's disease refractory to previous tumour necrosis factor antibody

AIM

Anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α drugs are effective treatments for the management of moderate/severe Crohn's disease (CD), but treatment failure is common. In the treatment of paediatric CD, there are no data about the use of a third introduced subcutaneous TNF antibody golimumab.

METHODS

We evaluated the efficacy of golimumab for adolescents with moderate/severe CD. Retrospective analyses were done in all 7 (5 girls) adolescents who received golimumab at a median age of 17 years for a median of 7.2 months. Paediatric Crohn's disease activity index (PCDAI), full blood count, inflammatory markers, use of corticosteroids and adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS

With golimumab, 5 of the 7 children were PCDAI responders and 2 entered remission (PCDAI <10). Faecal calprotectin was significantly reduced after 4 weeks compared to baseline. Out of five children, steroid withdrawal was possible in one and steroid reduction in two cases. There were no serious side effects.

CONCLUSION

In moderate/severe CD, golimumab induced clinical remission with PCDAI response. Golimumab may be an effective rescue therapy in refractory CD.

Pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic strategies in difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic literature review informing the EULAR recommendations for the management of difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVES

To summarise, by a systematic literature review (SLR), the evidence regarding pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic strategies in difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis (D2T RA), informing the EULAR recommendations for the management of D2T RA.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched up to December 2019. Relevant papers were selected and appraised.

RESULTS

Two hundred seven (207) papers studied therapeutic strategies. Limited evidence was found on effective and safe disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in patients with comorbidities and other contraindications that limit DMARD options (patients with obesity, hepatitis B and C, risk of venous thromboembolisms, pregnancy and lactation). In patients who previously failed biological (b-)DMARDs, all currently used b/targeted synthetic (ts-)DMARDs were found to be more effective than placebo. In patients who previously failed a tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi), there was a tendency of non-TNFi bDMARDs to be more effective than TNFis. Generally, effectiveness decreased in patients who previously failed a higher number of bDMARDs. Additionally, exercise, psychological, educational and self-management interventions were found to improve non-inflammatory complaints (mainly functional disability, pain, fatigue), education to improve goal setting, and self-management programmes, educational and psychological interventions to improve self-management.The identified evidence had several limitations: (1) no studies were found in patients with D2T RA specifically, (2) heterogeneous outcome criteria were used and (3) most studies had a moderate or high risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

This SLR underscores the scarcity of high-quality evidence on the pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of patients with D2T RA. Effectiveness of b/tsDMARDs decreased in RA patients who had failed a higher number of bDMARDs and a subsequent b/tsDMARD of a previously not targeted mechanism of action was somewhat more effective. Additionally, a beneficial effect of non-pharmacological interventions was found for improvement of non-inflammatory complaints, goal setting and self-management.

Clinical response among golimumab-treated Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis by number of previous biologic therapies: Real-world evidence from post-hoc analysis of post-marketing surveillance data

OBJECTIVES

To assess the real-world effectiveness of golimumab in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had previously received one or more biologic therapies.

METHODS

A post-hoc analysis of post-marketing surveillance was performed. The clinical response to golimumab was analyzed in 1216 patients who had previously received one or more biologic agents including non-TNF inhibitors with stratification by the number of previous biologic agents. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with DAS28-CRP response to golimumab.

RESULTS

While treatment persistence is comparable, the response to golimumab declined with an increasing number of previous biologic therapies. When stratified by golimumab dose, patients receiving golimumab at 100 mg had higher disease activity at baseline with an increasing number of previous bDMARDs, but they still achieved comparable disease activity at 24 weeks regardless of how many bDMARDs had been previously used. Univariate and multivariate analyses both identified concomitant oral corticosteroid therapy as a factor negatively associated with the likelihood of achieving a DAS28-CRP response.

CONCLUSION

Switching to golimumab was effective regardless of how many biologic agents had been previously used, but the response declined with an increasing number of prior biologic agents. A golimumab dose of 100 mg was also effective for those who previously received three or more bDMARDs.

Effectiveness of golimumab in rheumatoid arthritis patients with inadequate response to first-line biologic therapy: Results from a Japanese post-marketing surveillance study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the real-world effectiveness of golimumab in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had previously received first-line biologic therapy.

METHODS

A post-hoc analysis of post-marketing surveillance was performed. The effectiveness of golimumab was assessed in 731 patients with an inadequate response to first-line biologic therapy stratified by their prior biologic agents. Outcome variables included DAS28-CRP, DAS28-ESR, SDAI and CDAI, and medication persistence. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with the likelihood of achieving a DAS28-CRP response (good/moderate) after 24 weeks of golimumab treatment.

RESULTS

Patients demonstrated significant improvement in the clinical signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis at 24 weeks, as indicated by the reduction of DAS28-CRP (Δ0.87), DAS28-ESR (Δ0.85), SDAI (Δ7.32), and CDAI (Δ6.98) scores. This result was consistent across the subgroups stratified by previous biologic therapy. Multivariate analysis failed to identify any factors associated with response to golimumab.

CONCLUSION

In the real-world clinical setting, switching to golimumab was effective for Japanese patients with an inadequate response to first-line biologic therapy regardless of the biologic agent, including both TNF and non-TNF inhibitors.

Effect of Golimumab Dose Escalation in Japanese Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: Post-Hoc Analysis of Post-Marketing Surveillance Data

Introduction

While dose escalation of golimumab has been used for patients with rheumatoid arthritis who demonstrate an inadequate response to the standard dose, its effectiveness has not been fully evaluated. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical outcome observed by dose escalation of golimumab for patients with rheumatoid arthritis in the daily clinical setting.

Methods

A post hoc analysis was performed of data from the 24-week post-marketing surveillance conducted in Japan (n = 5154). A total of 301 patients with moderate or high disease activity at baseline who underwent dose escalation of golimumab were assessed for effectiveness at 24 weeks based on several variables, such as DAS28-CRP, SDAI, and CDAI, as well as for medication persistence through 24 weeks. In addition, the study population was stratified by the time to dose escalation, and effectiveness was likewise evaluated. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with a moderate/good EULAR response to golimumab at 24 weeks.

Results

Patients with golimumab dose escalation showed significant improvement of the clinical signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis at 24 weeks, as indicated by reduction of the DAS28-CRP (∆0.89), SDAI (∆8.64), and CDAI (∆8.28) scores. This result was relatively consistent across the subgroups stratified by the timing of dose escalation. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, 78.1% of the patients continued to receive golimumab at 24 weeks, and this was also similar among the subgroups stratified by the time to dose escalation. Multivariate analysis identified male sex and previous biologic therapy as factors that were significantly associated with the clinical response at 24 weeks.

Conclusion

In real-world clinical practice, improvement of disease activity was observed after uptitration of golimumab from 50 to 100 mg regardless of the timing. Male patients and biologic-naive patients were more likely to respond to dose escalation of golimumab.

Trial Registration

UMIN-CTR, Identifier: UMIN000015895.

Electronic Supplementary Material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s40744-020-00198-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Efficacy and survival of golimumab with and without methotrexate in patients with psoriatic arthritis: A retrospective study from daily clinical practice

Golimumab is a recombinant human monoclonal antibody targeted against tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Golimumab is effective in the management of patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy and survival of golimumab monotherapy versus co-administration with methotrexate (MTX) in patients with PsA in the clinical practice. This retrospective observational trial included patients with PsA. Efficacy was assessed by disease activity scores - DAS28, BASDAI, physician global assessment of disease (PGA) and CRP. Golimumab survival rate was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier analysis and univariate and multivariate Cox regression models. Forty-one patients with PsA were recruited; 26 patients were treated with golimumab, whereas 15 patients received combination therapy with MTX. The treatment resulted in significantly improved clinical measures of disease activity in comparison with baseline, including DAS28 CRP (4.1 vs 2.6, p ≤ 0.0001) and BASDAI (5.6 vs 3.8, p ≤ 0.001). Overall, 29 (71%) patients continued golimumab treatment (18 patients on monotherapy and 11 on combination therapy). The difference in the duration of golimumab survival between the combination therapy and monotherapy groups was not statistically significant (12.5 vs 12 months, p = 0.2). Similar efficacy profiles and survival rates were documented in patients with PsA regardless of the co-administration of methotrexate.

The Effectiveness of Intravenous Golimumab Administered Directly After Infliximab in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Purpose

For patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who do not respond or lose response to anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) biologics, switching to a different anti-TNF can be an effective means to manage symptoms and disease progression. This study examined the utilization and effectiveness of intravenous golimumab within a real-world population of patients with RA switching directly from infliximab, a potent anti-TNF.

Methods

Patient charts (n = 113) were collected from five US-based rheumatology practices. Patient demographics, treatment characteristics, infliximab and intravenous golimumab utilization data, and Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI), Patient Global Assessment (PtGA), Physician Global Assessment (PhGA), and Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data (RAPID3) scores were extracted from charts. The effectiveness of intravenous golimumab was assessed by comparing disease activity status pre- and post-initiation of intravenous golimumab therapy.

Findings

Significant decreases in patient disease activity were observed following treatment with intravenous golimumab. Mean CDAI and PhGA scores significantly decreased, and a significantly increased proportion of the population exhibited low disease activity or remission in the post intravenous golimumab period (p < 0.05). Limited changes were observed through the RAPID3 and PtGA.

Conclusions

Findings from this study indicate that intravenous golimumab is effective in managing RA in a population of patients switching directly from infliximab (mean last dose 7.4 mg/kg).

Cationic nanoparticle as an inhibitor of cell-free DNA-induced inflammation

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released from damaged or dead cells can activate DNA sensors that exacerbate the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here we show that ~40 nm cationic nanoparticles (cNP) can scavenge cfDNA derived from RA patients and inhibit the activation of primary synovial fluid monocytes and fibroblast-like synoviocytes. Using clinical scoring, micro-CT images, MRI, and histology, we show that intravenous injection of cNP into a CpG-induced mouse model or collagen-induced arthritis rat model can relieve RA symptoms including ankle and tissue swelling, and bone and cartilage damage. This culminates in the manifestation of partial mobility recovery of the treated rats in a rotational cage test. Mechanistic studies on intracellular trafficking and biodistribution of cNP, as well as measurement of cytokine expression in the joints and cfDNA levels in systemic circulation and inflamed joints also correlate with therapeutic outcomes. This work suggests a new direction of nanomedicine in treating inflammatory diseases.

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released from damaged or dead cells can activate DNA sensors that exacerbate the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here the authors use ~40 nm cationic nanoparticles to scavenge cfDNA, and demonstrate the potential for nanomedicine to relieve debilitating RA symptoms.

Tofacitinib Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Direct Comparison Study between Biologic-naïve and Experienced Patients

Objective This study was designed to directly compare the outcomes of tofacitinib therapy for methotrexate-refractory rheumatoid arthritis (RA) between biologic-naïve patients and patients who had experienced an inadequate response to biological agents. Methods We prospectively enrolled and followed 113 patients who had a high or moderate clinical disease activity index (CDAI) (36 biologic-naïve patients and 77 biologic-experienced patients). Patients received 5 mg of tofacitinib twice daily. Effectiveness and adverse events were examined at month 6 of treatment. Results At month 6, 65 patients (57.5%) reached CDAI50, which is defined as achieving ≥50% improvement. The number of previous biological agents was twice as high in CDAI50 non-responders as in responders (2.2 versus 1.1, p<0.001), but there was no significant difference in the type of previous agents or the reason for discontinuation. According to a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the previous use of biological agents [odds ratio (OR) 4.48, p=0.002] and the concurrent use of prednisolone (OR 2.40, p=0.047) were associated with a failure to achieve a CDAI 50 response. Biologic-naïve patients were more likely to achieve CDAI50 than biologic-experienced patients (80.6% versus 46.8%, p=0.001). Mean CDAI values were higher in biologic-experienced patients (11.4 versus 4.8, p=0.001), and remission rates were higher in biologic-naïve patients (41.7% versus 11.7%, p=0.001). Biologic-naïve patients more rapidly achieved remission. Rates of discontinuation resulting from adverse events were similar in both groups. Conclusion Although tofacitinib can provide an effective treatment option for intractable RA patients, its impact on outcomes is lower in patients with previous biologic failure.

Peripheral Ulcerative Keratitis Associated with Autoimmune Disease: Pathogenesis and Treatment

Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) is type of crescent-shaped inflammatory damage that occurs in the limbal region of the cornea. PUK is always combined with an epithelial defect and the destruction of the peripheral corneal stroma. PUK may have a connection to systemic conditions, such as long-standing rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Wegener granulomatosis (WG), relapsing polychondritis, classic polyarteritis nodosa and its variants, microscopic polyangiitis, and Churg-Strauss syndrome. However, the most common connection is with RA, which is also the focus of this review. The pathogenesis of PUK is still unclear. It is thought that circulating immune complexes and cytokines exert an important influence on the progression of this syndrome. Treatment is applied to inhibit certain aspects of PUK pathogenesis.

Chronic Calcium Channel Inhibitor Verapamil Antagonizes TNF-α-Mediated Inflammatory Reaction and Protects Against Inflammatory Arthritis in Mice

It is well established that the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) plays a dominant role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Calcium channel is recently reported to be closely associated with various inflammatory diseases. However, whether chronic calcium channel blocker verapamil plays a role in RA still remains unknown. To investigate the role of verapamil in antagonizing TNF-α-mediated inflammation reaction and the underlying mechanisms, bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) cells were cultured with stimulation of TNF-α, in the presence or absence of verapamil. Inflammation-associated cytokines, including IL-1, IL-6, inducible nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS-2), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), were assessed, and verapamil suppressed TNF-α-induced expression of inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice models were established, and arthritis progression was evaluated by clinical and histological signs of arthritis. Treatment of verapamil attenuated inflammation as well as joint destruction in arthritis models. In addition, activity of NF-kB signaling pathway was determined both in vitro and in mice arthritis models, and verapamil inhibited TNF-α-induced activation of NF-kB signaling both in vitro and in mice models. Collectively, chronic calcium channel blocker verapamil may shed light on treatment of inflammatory arthritis and provide a potential therapeutic instrument for RA in the future.

Second-line biologic therapy optimization in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis

OBJECTIVE

The Italian board for the TAilored BIOlogic therapy (ITABIO) reviewed the most consistent literature to indicate the best strategy for the second-line biologic choice in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthritis (SpA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

METHODS

Systematic review of the literature to identify English-language articles on efficacy of second-line biologic choice in RA, PsA, and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Data were extracted from available randomized, controlled trials, national biologic registries, national healthcare databases, post-marketing surveys, and open-label observational studies.

RESULTS

Some previously stated variables, including the patients׳ preference, the indication for anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) monotherapy in potential childbearing women, and the intravenous route with dose titration in obese subjects resulted valid for all the three rheumatic conditions. In RA, golimumab as second-line biologic has the highest level of evidence in anti-TNF failure. The switching strategy is preferable for responder patients who experience an adverse event, whereas serious or class-specific side effects should be managed by the choice of a differently targeted drug. Secondary inadequate response to etanercept (ETN) should be treated with a biologic agent other than anti-TNF. After two or more anti-TNF failures, the swapping to a different mode of action is recommended. Among non-anti-TNF targeted biologics, to date rituximab (RTX) and tocilizumab (TCZ) have the strongest evidence of efficacy in the treatment of anti-TNF failures. In PsA and AS patients failing the first anti-TNF, the switch strategy to a second is advisable, taking in account the evidence of adalimumab efficacy in patients with uveitis. The severity of psoriasis, of articular involvement, and the predominance of enthesitis and/or dactylitis may drive the choice toward ustekinumab or secukinumab in PsA, and the latter in AS.

CONCLUSION

Taking in account the paucity of controlled trials, second-line biologic therapy may be reasonably optimized in patients with RA, SpA, and PsA.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory joint disease, which can cause cartilage and bone damage as well as disability. Early diagnosis is key to optimal therapeutic success, particularly in patients with well-characterised risk factors for poor outcomes such as high disease activity, presence of autoantibodies, and early joint damage. Treatment algorithms involve measuring disease activity with composite indices, applying a treatment-to-target strategy, and use of conventional, biological, and newz non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. After the treatment target of stringent remission (or at least low disease activity) is maintained, dose reduction should be attempted. Although the prospects for most patients are now favourable, many still do not respond to current therapies. Accordingly, new therapies are urgently required. In this Seminar, we describe current insights into genetics and aetiology, pathophysiology, epidemiology, assessment, therapeutic agents, and treatment strategies together with unmet needs of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Efficacy and safety of tofacitinib following inadequate response to conventional synthetic or biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs

OBJECTIVES

Biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) have shown diminished clinical response following an inadequate response (IR) to ≥1 previous bDMARD. Here, tofacitinib was compared with placebo in patients with an IR to conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs; bDMARD-naive) and in patients with an IR to bDMARDs (bDMARD-IR).

METHODS

Data were taken from phase II and phase III studies of tofacitinib in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Patients received tofacitinib 5 or 10 mg twice daily, or placebo, as monotherapy or with background methotrexate or other csDMARDs. Efficacy endpoints and incidence rates of adverse events (AEs) of special interest were assessed.

RESULTS

2812 bDMARD-naive and 705 bDMARD-IR patients were analysed. Baseline demographics and disease characteristics were generally similar between treatment groups within subpopulations. Across subpopulations, improvements in efficacy parameters at month 3 were generally significantly greater for both tofacitinib doses versus placebo. Clinical response was numerically greater with bDMARD-naive versus bDMARD-IR patients (overlapping 95% CIs). Rates of safety events of special interest were generally similar between tofacitinib doses and subpopulations; however, patients receiving glucocorticoids had more serious AEs, discontinuations due to AEs, serious infection events and herpes zoster. Numerically greater clinical responses and incidence rates of AEs of special interest were generally reported for tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily versus tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily (overlapping 95% CIs).

CONCLUSIONS

Tofacitinib demonstrated efficacy in both bDMARD-naive and bDMARD-IR patients with RA. Clinical response to tofacitinib was generally numerically greater in bDMARD-naive than bDMARD-IR patients. The safety profile appeared similar between subpopulations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS

(NCT00413660, NCT00550446, NCT00603512, NCT00687193, NCT00960440, NCT00847613, NCT00814307, NCT00856544, NCT00853385).

Drug survival of biologic therapy in a large, disease-based registry of patients with psoriasis: results from the Psoriasis Longitudinal Assessment and Registry (PSOLAR)

Background

Drug survival is a marker for treatment sustainability in chronic diseases such as psoriasis.

Objective

The aim of these analyses was to assess survival of biologic treatments in the PSOriasis Longitudinal Assessment and Registry (PSOLAR).

Methods

PSOLAR is a large, prospective, international, disease‐based registry of patients with psoriasis receiving (or eligible for) systemic therapy in a real‐world setting. Drug survival is defined as the time from initiation to discontinuation (stop/switch) of biologic therapy on registry. The number of patients who discontinued each treatment and the duration of therapy were recorded. Using Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox‐regression analyses [hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs)], time to discontinuation was compared across cohorts undergoing first‐, second‐ or third‐line treatment with ustekinumab, infliximab, adalimumab or etanercept.

Results

As of the 2013 data cut, 12 095 patients with psoriasis were enrolled in PSOLAR. Of the 4000 patients initiating any new biologic therapy, approximately 3500 started a first‐line, second‐line or third‐line biologic therapy during the registry. Lack of effectiveness was the most common reason for discontinuation across biologic therapies. Based on the multivariate analysis, significantly shorter times to discontinuation were observed for infliximab [HR (95%CI) = 2.73 (1.48–5.04), P = 0.0014]; adalimumab [4.16 (2.80–6.20), P < 0.0001]; and etanercept [4.91 (3.28–7.35) P < 0.0001] compared with ustekinumab [reference treatment]) for first‐line biologic use; results were similar for treatment effects for second/third‐line therapies. Although limited in power, analyses in patients with concurrent psoriatic arthritis confirmed by a rheumatologist reflect observations in the overall psoriasis population.

Conclusion

Drug survival was superior for ustekinumab compared with infliximab, adalimumab and etanercept in patients with psoriasis.

Therapeutic options after treatment failure in rheumatoid arthritis or spondyloarthritides

The prognosis for patients with rheumatoid arthritis or spondyloarthritides has improved dramatically due to earlier diagnosis, recognition of the need to treat early with conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs), alone or in combinations, the establishment of treatment targets, and the development of biological DMARDs (bDMARDs). Many patients are now able to achieve clinical remission or low disease activity with therapy, and reduce or eliminate systemic corticosteroid use. Guidelines recommend methotrexate as a first-line agent for the initial treatment of rheumatoid arthritis; however, a majority of patients will require a change of csDMARD or step up to combination therapy with the addition of another csDMARD or a bDMARD. However, treatment failure is common and switching to a different therapy may be required. The large number of available treatment options, combined with a lack of comparative data, makes the choice of a new therapy complex and often not evidence based. We summarize and discuss evidence to inform treatment decisions in patients who require a change in therapy, including baseline factors that may predict response to therapy.