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Ward MM, Madanchi N, Yazdanyar A, Shah NR, Constantinescu F. Prevalence and predictors of sustained remission/low disease activity after discontinuation of induction or maintenance treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic and scoping review. Arthritis Res Ther 2023; 25:222. [PMID: 37986101 PMCID: PMC10659063 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-023-03199-0] [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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine the prevalence of sustained remission/low disease activity (LDA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) after discontinuation of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi), separately in induction treatment and maintenance treatment studies, and to identify predictors of successful discontinuation. METHODS We performed a systematic literature review of studies published from 2005 to May 2022 that reported outcomes after TNFi discontinuation among patients in remission/LDA. We computed prevalences of successful discontinuation by induction or maintenance treatment, remission criterion, and follow-up time. We performed a scoping review of predictors of successful discontinuation. RESULTS Twenty-two induction-withdrawal studies were identified. In pooled analyses, 58% (95% confidence interval (CI) 45, 70) had DAS28 < 3.2 (9 studies), 52% (95% CI 35, 69) had DAS28 < 2.6 (9 studies), and 40% (95% CI 18, 64) had SDAI ≤ 3.3 (4 studies) at 37-52 weeks after discontinuation. Among patients who continued TNFi, 62 to 85% maintained remission. Twenty-two studies of maintenance treatment discontinuation were also identified. At 37-52 weeks after TNFi discontinuation, 48% (95% CI 38, 59) had DAS28 < 3.2 (10 studies), and 47% (95% CI 33, 62) had DAS28 < 2.6 (6 studies). Heterogeneity among studies was high. Data on predictors in induction-withdrawal studies were limited. In both treatment scenarios, longer duration of RA was most consistently associated with less successful discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS Approximately one-half of patients with RA remain in remission/LDA for up to 1 year after TNFi discontinuation, with slightly higher proportions in induction-withdrawal settings than with maintenance treatment discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M Ward
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Building 10CRC, Room 4-1339, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20892-1468, USA.
| | - Nima Madanchi
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
- Current address: Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ali Yazdanyar
- Department of Emergency and Hospital Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA, USA
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
- Current address: Division of Hospital Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nehal R Shah
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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Uhrenholt L, Christensen R, Dreyer L, Hauge EM, Schlemmer A, Loft AG, Rasch M, Horn HC, Gade KH, Østgård RD, Taylor PC, Duch K, Kristensen S. Disease activity-guided tapering of biologics in patients with inflammatory arthritis: a pragmatic, randomized, open-label, equivalence trial. Scand J Rheumatol 2023; 52:481-492. [PMID: 36745114 DOI: 10.1080/03009742.2023.2164979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether disease activity-guided tapering of biologics compared to continuation as usual care enables a substantial dose reduction while disease activity remains equivalent. METHOD In this pragmatic, randomized, open-label, equivalence trial, adults with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or axial spondyloarthritis in low disease activity on stable-dose biologics for ≥ 12 months were randomized 2:1 into either the tapering group, i.e. disease activity-guided prolongation of the biologic dosing interval until flare or withdrawal, or the control group, i.e. maintaince of baseline biologics with a possible small interval increase at the patients request. The co-primary outcome in the intention-to-treat population was met if superiority in ≥ 50% biologic reduction at 18 months was demonstrated and disease activity was equivalent (equivalence margins ± 0.5). RESULTS Ninety-five patients were randomized to tapering and 47 to control, of whom 37% (35/95) versus 2% (1/47) achieved ≥ 50% biologic reduction at 18 months. The risk difference was statistically significant [35%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 24%-45%], while disease activity remained equivalent [mean difference 0.05, 95% CI -0.12-0.29]. A statistically significant flare risk was observed [tapering 41% (39/95) vs control 21% (10/47), risk difference 20%, 95% CI 4%-35%]; but, only 1% (1/95) and 6% (3/47) had persistent flare and needed to switch to another biological drug. CONCLUSIONS Disease activity-guided tapering of biologics in patients with inflammatory arthritis enabled one-third to achieve ≥ 50% biologic reduction, while disease activity between groups remained equivalent. Flares were more frequent in the tapering group but were managed with rescue therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Uhrenholt
- Center of Rheumatic Research Aalborg (CERRA), Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Section for Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Research, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - R Christensen
- Section for Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Research, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Research Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - L Dreyer
- Center of Rheumatic Research Aalborg (CERRA), Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - E-M Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - A Schlemmer
- Center of Rheumatic Research Aalborg (CERRA), Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark
| | - A G Loft
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mnb Rasch
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - H C Horn
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - K H Gade
- Center of Rheumatic Research Aalborg (CERRA), Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - R D Østgård
- Department of Rheumatology, Silkeborg Regional Hospital, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - P C Taylor
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - K Duch
- Center of Rheumatic Research Aalborg (CERRA), Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Unit of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - S Kristensen
- Center of Rheumatic Research Aalborg (CERRA), Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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3
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D'Onofrio B, van der Helm-van Mil A, W J Huizinga T, van Mulligen E. Inducibility or predestination? Queries and concepts around drug-free remission in rheumatoid arthritis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2023; 19:217-225. [PMID: 36511619 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2023.2157814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Drug-free remission (DFR) and its maintenance have been defined as the most desirable outcome for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. DFR is linked to resolution of arthritis-related symptoms and restoration of normal functioning. However, there is currently no consensus if an optimal strategy, upon the initiation of treatment to the proper drugs withdrawal, is enough to induce it, or whether it is a predetermined condition related to patients' intrinsic characteristics. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on two key concepts around DFR. First, we analyze patients' intrinsic factors that may increase the chance of DFR, regardless of therapeutic choices. Second, we discuss on the evidence that it can be induced thanks to adequate, extrinsic disease management. Finally, we provide a glimpse into consequences of drugs discontinuation. EXPERT OPINION The early initiation of DMARD and the subsequent strict monitoring and drug adjustments are of primary importance to allow patients to achieve DFR, irrespective of initial treatment strategy. Once remission is obtained and maintained, it is possible to gradually taper and discontinue drugs with no dramatic consequences on the disease course. Among those who stop medication, ACPA-negative patients more often maintain the remission. Thus, DFR might depend on a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo D'Onofrio
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Division of Rheumatology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Annette van der Helm-van Mil
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom W J Huizinga
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Elise van Mulligen
- Department of Rheumatology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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4
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Zhao J, Zhou W, Wu Y, Yan X, Yang L, Zhang Z. Efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of triple therapy in preventing relapse in rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized controlled trial (ESCoRT study). Chin Med J (Engl) 2022; 135:2200-2209. [PMID: 36525606 PMCID: PMC9771172 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000002336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biological agents, such as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi), have been widely used in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and greatly improved goal achievement. The aim of this study was to investigate whether conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) combination was better in reducing relapse than methotrexate (MTX) monotherapy, and more cost-effective than continuing TNFi plus MTX in RA patients who achieved low disease activity (LDA) with TNFi and MTX therapy. METHODS RA patients who failed to csDMARDs received an induction therapy of MTX plus TNFi for maximally 12 weeks. Those achieving LDA in 12 weeks were randomly assigned at a 1:1:1 ratio into three groups: (A) adding hydroxychloroquine and sulfasalazine for the first 12 weeks and then discontinuing TNFi for the following 48 weeks; (B) maintaining TNFi and MTX for 60 weeks; and (C) maintaining TNFi and MTX for the first 12 weeks and then discontinuing TNFi for the following 48 weeks. The primary outcome was relapse. RESULTS A total of 117 patients were enrolled for induction therapy and 67 patients who achieved LDA within 12 weeks were randomized, with 24, 21, and 22 patients in groups A, B, and C, respectively. The relapse rates of groups A and B during the entire 60 weeks were comparable [10/22 (45.5%) vs. 7/20 (35.0%), χ2 = 0.475, P = 0.491], however, significantly lower than that of group C [10/22 (45.5%) vs. 17/20 (85.0%), χ2 = 5.517, P = 0.019; 7/20 (35.0%) vs. 17/20 (85.0%), χ2 = 11.035, P = 0.004, respectively]. Taking RMB 100,000 Yuan as the threshold of willingness to pay, compared to MTX monotherapy (group C), both TNFi maintenance and triple csDMARDs therapies were cost-effective, but triple csDMARDs therapy was better. CONCLUSION For RA patients who have achieved LDA with TNFi and MTX, csDMARDs triple therapy was a cost-effective option in favor of reducing relapse. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02320630.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Yangfeng Wu
- Peking University Clinical Research Institute (PUCRI), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xiaoyan Yan
- Peking University Clinical Research Institute (PUCRI), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Li Yang
- Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Zhuoli Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
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5
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Birkner B, Rech J, Edelmann E, Verheyen F, Schett G, Stargardt T. Patient-individual tapering of DMARDs in rheumatoid arthritis patients in a real-world setting. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2022; 62:1476-1484. [PMID: 35980267 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keac472] [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: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aim to provide real-world evidence on the effectiveness of patient-individual tapering of DMARDs for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in daily clinical practice using medical records and claims data. METHODS We utilize data obtained through a controlled prospective cohort study in Germany conducted from July 2018 to March 2021. Participants consist of RA patients in sustained remission (>6 months) who were eligible for tapering at enrolment. Patients treated with individual tapering based on shared decision making (n = 200) are compared with patients without any dose-reduction (n = 237). The risk of loss of remission and the risk of flare is assessed with risk-adjusted Kaplan-Meier estimators and Cox-Regressions. We evaluate differences in costs one year before and after baseline based on claims data for the subgroup of patients insured at one major sickness fund in Germany (n = 76). RESULTS The risk of flare (HR 0.88 95%-CI: 0.59-1.30) or loss of remission (HR 1.04 95%-CI: 0.73, 1.49) was not statistically different between the individual tapering group and the continuation group. Minor increases of disease activity and decreases of quality of life were observed 12 months after baseline, again with no statistically significant difference. Drug costs decreased by 1,017€in the individual tapering group while increased by 1,151€in the continuation group (p< 0.01). CONCLUSION Individual tapering of DMARDs does not increase the average risk of experiencing flares or loss of remission. Encouraging rheumatologists and patients to apply tapering in shared decision may be a feasible approach to allow individualisation of treatment in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Birkner
- Hamburg Center for Health Economics (HCHE), Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Rech
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3-Rheumatology and Immunology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tom Stargardt
- Hamburg Center for Health Economics (HCHE), Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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6
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Lei S, Li Z, Zhang X, Zhou S. Efficacy and safety of progressively reducing biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in persistent remission: a study protocol for a non-inferiority randomized, controlled, single-blind trial. Trials 2022; 23:600. [PMID: 35897052 PMCID: PMC9327307 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06543-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To compare the effects of two biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (bDMARD) administration strategies on the maintenance effect and safety of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in remission, to analyze the effects of gradual drug reduction and dose maintenance treatment on clinical outcomes in patients who have achieved remission with different types of bDMARDs, to search and screen out people who may benefit from drug reduction strategies, and to provide references for drug reduction strategies and treatment options for patients with RA in remission, so as to help improve the safety of the treatment and reduce the economic burden. Methods The study will be a 24-month non-inferiority randomized, controlled, single-blind trial and is planned to be launched in our hospital from September 2021 to August 2023. Patients will be randomized in a ratio of 2:1 to two groups: maintenance or injection spacing by 50%/gradual reduction of dosage every 3 months up to complete stop. When the patient relapses, return to the last effective dose. If the remission can be maintained, the medication of bDMARDs can be stopped 9 months after enrollment. The primary outcome will be the persistent flare rate. Discussion Our study may provide a reference for the selection of drug reduction strategies and treatment options for patients with RA in remission, so as to help improve the safety of the treatment and reduce the economic burden. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2100044751. Registered on 26 March 2021
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangwen Lei
- Department of Rheumatology, Gansu Provincial People's Hospital, 204 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zijia Li
- Department of Rheumatology, Gansu Provincial People's Hospital, 204 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Department of Thoracic surgery, Gansu Provincial People's Hospital, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuhong Zhou
- Department of Rheumatology, Gansu Provincial People's Hospital, 204 Donggang West Road, Lanzhou, 730000, People's Republic of China
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Mori S, Okada A, Koga T, Ueki Y. Long-term outcomes after discontinuing biological drugs and tofacitinib in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A prospective cohort study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270391. [PMID: 35737642 PMCID: PMC9223309 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study examined long-term outcomes of biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) and tofacitinib discontinuation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods Ninety-seven RA patients who desired drug discontinuation after sustained remission or low disease activity for at least 48 weeks due to stable treatment with biological drugs or tofacitinib were enrolled into this study. All patients were prospectively followed until disease flare or the end of the study. Discontinued drugs (previous drugs) were reintroduced to treat flares. Results Following bDMARD/tofacitinib discontinuation (mean follow-up, 2.1 years; standard deviation, 2.0), disease flare occurred at a crude incidence rate of 0.36 per person-year. The median time to flare was 1.6 years (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.9–2.6), and the cumulative flare probability was estimated to be 45% at 1 year, 64% at 3 years, and 80% at 5 years. No or little radiological progression was shown in 87.1% of patients who maintained remission for 3 years. A Fine‒Gray competing risk regression analysis showed that predictive factors for a flare were longer RA duration at the start of bDMARD/tofacitinib treatment, previous failure of treatment with bDMARDs, and a shorter period of remission or low disease activity before drug discontinuation. Type of discontinued drug was not identified as a predictive factor after adjusting for other predictor variables. Restarting previous treatment regimens led to rapidly regaining disease control in 89% of flare patients within 1 month. Conclusion Discontinuation of bDMARD/tofacitinib may be a feasible strategy in RA patients, especially patients with early treated and longer-controlled RA. Flares are manageable in most RA patients and radiological progression is rare for at least 3 years in patients with sustained remission after bDMARD/tofacitinib discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunsuke Mori
- Department of Rheumatology, Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic Diseases, National Hospital Organization Kumamoto Saishun Medical Center, Kohshi, Kumamoto, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Akitomo Okada
- Department of Rheumatology, Japanese Red Cross Nagasaki Genbaku Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Koga
- Division of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences, Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Center for Bioinformatics and Molecular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Yukitaka Ueki
- Rheumatic and Collagen Disease Center, Sasebo Chuo Hospital, Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan
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8
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[Innovative strategies for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis]. Z Rheumatol 2022; 81:118-124. [PMID: 34997270 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-021-01144-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Besides excellent guidelines and newly developed highly effective drugs, evidence-based strategic use of these new drugs has especially contributed to enormous advances in rheumatoid arthritis treatment, apparent especially since 2000. Currently, the treat-to-target (T2T) strategy has proven to be the most successful in several studies and systematic reviews. The target is to achieve remission, which should be reached and sustained for an optimal outcome (i.e. stable over a long time period). If the initial disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) treatment fails, the best strategy for continuing treatment is controversial, with swap or switch being open to debate (change within a class of drugs or change in the mechanism of action). Recent studies seem to indicate that switching to another mechanism of action is the most successful approach. A hotly discussed topic is the question whether DMARD treatment can or should be tapered when sustained remission has been achieved? Many patients wish for a reduction of drugs in cases of stable remission; however, the stable disease control might become destabilized by tapering. The main priority is the reduction or tapering of glucocorticoid treatment. When the decision for reduction of DMARD treatment is made together with the patient, a complete cessation bears a high risk of a flare, therefore, a careful step by step reduction of DMARD treatment should be preferred. In the case of a running combination, the question whether the conventional DMARD (mostly methotrexate), the biological (b)DMARD or targeted synthetic (ts)DMARD should be reduced first, must be decided on an individual basis. Most patients prefer to first reduce methotrexate and transfer to a monotherapy.
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9
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Uhrenholt L, Christensen R, Dinesen WKH, Liboriussen CH, Andersen SS, Dreyer L, Schlemmer A, Hauge EM, Skrubbeltrang C, Taylor PC, Kristensen S. Risk of flare after tapering or withdrawal of b-/tsDMARDs in patients with RA or axSpA: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:3107-3122. [PMID: 34864896 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate flare risk when tapering or withdrawing biological or targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (b-/tsDMARDs) compared to continuation in patients with inflammatory arthritis (IA) in sustained remission or low disease activity. METHODS Articles were identified in Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. Eligible trials were randomised, controlled trials comparing tapering and/or withdrawal of b- and/or tsDMARDs with standard dose in IA. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed with risk ratio (RR), or Peto's Odds Ratio (POR) for sparse events, and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). RESULTS The meta-analysis comprised 22 trials: 11 assessed tapering and 7 addressed withdrawal (4 assessed both). Only trials with a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) population were identified. An increased flare risk was demonstrated when b-/tsDMARD tapering was compared to continuation, RR = 1.45 (95%CI: 1.19 to 1.77, I2 = 42.5%), and potentially increased for persistent flare, POR = 1.56 (95%CI: 0.97 to 2.52, I2 = 0%). Comparing tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) withdrawal to continuation, a highly increased flare risk (RR = 2.28, 95%CI: 1.78 to 2.93, I2 = 78%) and increased odds of persistent flare (POR = 3.41, 95%CI: 1.91 to 6.09, I2 = 49%) was observed. No clear difference in flare risk between RA or axSpA was observed. CONCLUSION A high risk for flare and persistent flare was demonstrated for TNFi withdrawal whereas an increased risk for flare but not for persistent flare was observed for b-/tsDMARD tapering. Thus, tapering seems to be the more favourable approach. REGISTRATION PROSPERO (CRD42019136905).
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Uhrenholt
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.,Section for Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Research, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, The Parker Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robin Christensen
- Section for Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Research, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, The Parker Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Research Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | | | - Stine S Andersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Lene Dreyer
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Annette Schlemmer
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Conni Skrubbeltrang
- Department of Medical Library, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter C Taylor
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Salome Kristensen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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10
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Massignan Â, Mendonça da Silva Chakr R, Pamplona Bueno de Andrade N, Brenol CV. Synovitis and Tenosynovitis on Ultrasound as Predictors of DMARD Tapering Failure in Patients with Long-Standing Rheumatoid Arthritis in Clinical Remission or Low Disease Activity. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2021; 40:2549-2559. [PMID: 33492685 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the predictive value of synovitis and tenosynovitis detected by grayscale (GS) and by power Doppler (PD) ultrasound (US) in relation to failure of tapering disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. METHODS Long-standing RA patients who de-escalated treatment were included in this prospective cohort study. All patients underwent 3 ultrasonographic and clinical assessments, at baseline and every 3 or 4 months, over a period of 6-8 months. US investigation of 32 joints was performed. Synovitis was assessed by GS and PD semiquantitative scoring (0-3) and a global score was calculated for each individual by summing single joint scores. The presence of tenosynovitis was recorded whenever detected during ultrasound assessment. RESULTS Thirty-three patients completed the follow-up period (29 women; 4 men). Eight patients (25%) relapsed. Using the optimal cutoff values determined by receiver operating characteristic curve, patients with a PD synovitis ≥1 at baseline had significantly greater chances to relapse than those without PD activity. During follow-up, GS tenosynovitis was detected in 6 patients (5 with PD) who failed and in 3 patients (1 with PD) who succeeded in tapering therapy. Having at least 1 joint with PD synovitis resulted in a relative risk of 3.14 and having GS tenosynovitis resulted in a relative risk of 11.4 (95% CI: 1.03-9.60 and 2.82-45.9, respectively) for relapse in the multivariate Poisson model. CONCLUSIONS PD synovitis and GS tenosynovitis may be useful to identify RA patients in risk of relapse after DMARD tapering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângela Massignan
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Rafael Mendonça da Silva Chakr
- Serviço de Reumatologia, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Nicole Pamplona Bueno de Andrade
- Serviço de Reumatologia, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Claiton Viegas Brenol
- Serviço de Reumatologia, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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11
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Bouhuys M, Lexmond WS, Dijkstra G, Lobatón T, Louis E, van Biervliet S, Groen H, Guardiola J, Rheenen PV. Efficacy of anti-TNF dosing interval lengthening in adolescents and young adults with inflammatory bowel disease in sustained remission (FREE-study): protocol for a partially randomised patient preference trial. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e054154. [PMID: 34732500 PMCID: PMC8572401 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapy has greatly improved treatment outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but long-term use is associated with cutaneous reactions, susceptibility to infections and frequent injections or hospital visits. Several non-controlled studies have demonstrated that dose reduction is feasible for a subset of patients, provided that early detection of a disease flare is possible. Here, we aim to compare the effectiveness of interval lengthening with standard dosing in maintaining remission in young patients with IBD. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In this international, prospective, non-inferiority, partially randomised patient preference trial, we aim to recruit 148 patients aged 12-25 years with luminal Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis in sustained remission (ie, three consecutive in-range faecal calprotectin (FC) results or recently confirmed endoscopic remission). In the interventional arm, the dosing interval will be lengthened from 8 to 12 weeks for infliximab users and from 2 to 3 weeks for adalimumab users. In the control group, standard dosing will be continued. Rapid tests will be performed for FC every 4 weeks and for anti-TNF trough levels every 12 weeks. The primary outcome is the cumulative incidence of out-of-range FC results at 48-week follow-up. Secondary endpoints include time to get out-of-range FC results, cumulative incidence of adverse effects, proportion of patients progressing to loss of response and identification of predictors of successful interval lengthening. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The protocol has been approved by the Medical Ethics Review Committee of the University Medical Centre Groningen and is pending at the other participating centres. Results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific meetings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT number: 2020-001811-26; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04646187. Protocol version 4, date 17 September 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marleen Bouhuys
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University Medical Centre Groningen, Beatrix Childrens Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Willem S Lexmond
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University Medical Centre Groningen, Beatrix Childrens Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard Dijkstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Triana Lobatón
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Ghent, Gent, Belgium
| | - Edouard Louis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Central University Hospital of Liege, Liege, Belgium
| | | | - Henk Groen
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jordi Guardiola
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bellvitge University Hospital, IDIBELL, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Patrick van Rheenen
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University Medical Centre Groningen, Beatrix Childrens Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands
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12
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Terslev L, Ostergaard M. Rheumatoid Arthritis Relapse and Remission - Advancing Our Predictive Capability Using Modern Imaging. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:2547-2555. [PMID: 34163211 PMCID: PMC8215903 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s284405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical remission has become an achievable target for the majority of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, but subclinical inflammation as assessed by ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been demonstrated to be frequent in patients in clinical remission. Subclinical synovitis has been shown to be linked to both subsequent structural damage progression and a risk of flare, demonstrating that subclinical synovitis represents incomplete suppression of inflammation and questions whether it is appropriate only to use clinical composite scores as treatment target in clinical practice. Maintaining a state of remission has proven important as sustained clinical remission impacts long-term outcome regarding joint damage progression, physical function and quality of life. Treating subclinical inflammation has been attempted and has led to more frequent strict clinical remission and better physical function, but also to more adverse events. Thus, an overall benefit of incorporating imaging goals in treat-to-target strategies has not been documented. However, in patients in clinical remission on biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, both ultrasound and MRI may aid in the clinical decision regarding whether drug tapering or even discontinuation should be attempted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene Terslev
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Glostrup, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Ostergaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Glostrup, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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13
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Sebastiani M, Venerito V, Bugatti S, Bazzani C, Biggioggero M, Petricca L, Foti R, Bortoluzzi A, Balduzzi S, Visalli E, Frediani B, Manfredi A, Gremese E, Favalli E, Iannone F, Ferraccioli G, Lapadula G. Retention rate of a second line with a biologic DMARD after failure of a first-line therapy with abatacept, tocilizumab, or rituximab: results from the Italian GISEA registry. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 40:4039-4047. [PMID: 33881676 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05734-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES EULAR recommendations do not suggest which biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (bDMARD) should be preferred after failure of a first bDMARD in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In particular, few data are available regarding the effectiveness of a second-line bDMARD after failure of abatacept (ABA), tocilizumab (TCZ), and rituximab (RTX). The aim of this study was to analyze the retention rate of a second line with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) or other mechanisms of action (MoAs), after the failure of either RTX, TCZ, or ABA. METHODS Two hundred and seventy-eight RA patients from the Italian GISEA registry were included in the study. RTX was the first bDMARD in 18% of patients, ABA in 45.7%, and TCZ in 36.3%, while the second bDMARD was a TNFi (group 1) in 129 patients and an agent with a different MoA (group 2) in 149. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 22 months (IQR 68), 129 patients discontinued their treatment; patients of group 1 discontinued the treatment more frequently than patients of group 2 (p<0.001) with retention rates of 33.6±5.7% and 63.6±4.6% after 104 weeks for group 1 and group 2, respectively (p<0.001). At multivariate analysis, the mechanism of action was the only predictor for the maintenance in therapy. CONCLUSIONS According to our data, ABA, RTX, and TCZ seem to maintain a good retention rate also when used as a second-line therapy, suggesting their use after the failure of a non-TNFi as first-line therapy. However, specifically designed studies are needed to evaluate the more appropriate therapeutic strategies in RA, according to the first-line drug, including new targeted synthetic DMARDs. Key Points • A large proportion of rheumatoid arthritis patients fail the first biologic DMARD. • Few data are available about the efficacy of biologic DMARD after the failure of a non-TNF inhibitor. • Abatacept, rituximab, or tocilizumab seem to maintain a good retention rate after the failure of a first-course therapy with a non-TNF inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Sebastiani
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo, 41125, Modena, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Venerito
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Rheumatology Unit, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Serena Bugatti
- Division of Rheumatology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Bazzani
- Unit of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Luca Petricca
- Division of Rheumatology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosario Foti
- Rheumatology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico San Marco, Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bortoluzzi
- Section of Rheumatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara and Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Balduzzi
- Division of Rheumatology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Visalli
- Rheumatology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico San Marco, Catania, Italy
| | - Bruno Frediani
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery e Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Andreina Manfredi
- Rheumatology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Policlinico di Modena, Via del Pozzo, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Elisa Gremese
- Division of Rheumatology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Ennio Favalli
- Department of Rheumatology, Gaetano Pini Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Florenzo Iannone
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Rheumatology Unit, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Lapadula
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Rheumatology Unit, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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14
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Fornaro M, Righetti G, Abbruzzese A, Lopalco G, Cacciapaglia F, Anelli MG, Venerito V, Iannone F. High disease relapse after bDMARD spacing in psoriatic arthritis compared to rheumatoid arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis patients: real-life data from BIOPURE registry. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 40:3659-3665. [PMID: 33864158 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05728-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of a spacing strategy of bDMARDs in a cohort of selected patients in disease remission or low-disease activity (LDA) without glucocorticoids affected with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). This was a single-centre study carried out on patients prospectively enrolled in the biologic Apulian registry. Patients whose disease was in remission or LDA without taking glucocorticoids during the previous 6 months and who had agreed to increase the time interval between bDMARD doses were included in this study. Demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded at baseline and at 3, 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Endpoint of the study was the survival of spacing doses in the time lag of the study. Failure of spacing was defined as the first flare of disease. Thirty-seven RA, 28 PsA and 20 axSpA patients underwent bDMARD spacing according to a local strategy. During the follow-up, 5 RA, 6 PsA and 4 axSpA patients had a joint flare, but further 5 PsA patients manifested a skin relapse. Global persistence was 86.5% for RA (MST = 41 (95% CI: 37-45) months) and 80% for axSpA patients (MST = 36 (95% CI: 31-42) months). PsA patients showed a lower persistence, being of 60.7% (MST = 30 (95% CI: 23-36) months) (log-rank test, p = 0.03). Dose reduction by spacing bDMARD doses may be a feasible approach in patients with persistent remission/LDA activity. However, PsA patients might have greater odds of spacing failure because of skin psoriasis relapse. Key Points • Spacing of bDMARDs may be a feasible strategy for some patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis who achieve the target and withdrawn glucocorticoids. • Psoriatic arthritis patients showed lower persistence because of both articular and skin relapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Fornaro
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, P.zza G Cesare, 11 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - G Righetti
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, P.zza G Cesare, 11 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - A Abbruzzese
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, P.zza G Cesare, 11 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - G Lopalco
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, P.zza G Cesare, 11 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - F Cacciapaglia
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, P.zza G Cesare, 11 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - M G Anelli
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, P.zza G Cesare, 11 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - V Venerito
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, P.zza G Cesare, 11 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - F Iannone
- Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, P.zza G Cesare, 11 70124, Bari, Italy.
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15
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Arnold S, Jaeger VK, Scherer A, Ciurea A, Walker UA, Kyburz D. Discontinuation of biologic DMARDs in a real-world population of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in remission: outcome and risk factors. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 61:131-138. [PMID: 33848332 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Data from randomized controlled trials have shown the feasibility of discontinuation of bDMARD therapy in patients with RA that have reached remission. Criteria for selecting patients that are likely to remain in remission are still incompletely defined.We aimed to identify predictors of successful discontinuation of bDMARD therapy in the Swiss Clinical Quality Management (SCQM) registry, a real-world cohort of RA patients. METHODS RA patients in DAS28-ESR remission who stopped bDMARD/tsDMARD treatment were included. Loss of remission was defined as a DAS28-ESR > 2.6 or restart of a bDMARD/tsDMARD. Time to loss of remission was the main outcome. Kaplan-Meier methods were applied and cox regression was used for multivariable analyses adjusting for confounding factors. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation. RESULTS 318 patients in a bDMARD/tsDMARD-free remission were followed between 1997 and 2017. 241 patients (76%) lost remission after a median time of 0.9 years (95%CI 0.7-1.0). The time to loss of remission was shorter in women, in patients with a longer disease duration >4yrs and in patients who did not meet CDAI remission criteria at baseline. Remission was longer in patients with csDMARD therapy during b/tsDMARD free remission (HR 0.8, p= 0.05, 95%CI 0.6-1.0). CONCLUSION In a real-world patient population the majority of patients who discontinued b/tsDMARD treatment lost remission within <1 year. Our study confirms that fulfilment of more rigorous remission criteria and csDMARD treatment increases the chance of maintaining b/tsDMARD free remission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Arnold
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Veronika K Jaeger
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Institute for Epidemiology and Social Medicine, University of Münster, Germany
| | - Almut Scherer
- Swiss Clinical Quality Management Foundation, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Ciurea
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich A Walker
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Diego Kyburz
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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16
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Terslev L, Brahe CH, Hetland ML, Georgiadis S, Ellegaard K, Juul L, Huynh T, Døhn UM, Fana V, Møller T, Krabbe S, Ørnbjerg LM, Glinatsi D, Røgind H, Hansen A, Nørregaard J, Jacobsen S, Jensen DV, Manilo N, Asmussen K, Boesen M, Rastiemadabadi Z, Morsel-Carlsen L, Møller JM, Krogh NS, Østergaard M. Doppler ultrasound predicts successful discontinuation of biological DMARDs in rheumatoid arthritis patients in clinical remission. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2021; 60:5549-5559. [PMID: 33748831 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the ability of ultrasound to predict successful tapering and successful discontinuation of biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) at 2-year follow-up in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in sustained remission. METHODS Patients in sustained remission (DAS28-CRP≤2.6) and no radiographic progression the previous year tapered bDMARD according to a standardized regime. One-hundred-and-nineteen of these patients were included in this ultrasound sub-study. At baseline, clinical assessment, MRI, x-ray and ultrasound of 24 joints were performed. Ultrasound-detected synovitis was defined and scored 0-3 using the Outcome in Rheumatology (OMERACT) scoring system at joint level for both greyscale and Doppler activity. Sum scores for each ultrasound modality were calculated for 24 joints at patient level. Final state of treatment was assessed after 2 years. The predictive value of ultrasound measures for successful tapering and discontinuation at 2-year follow-up was assessed via logistic regression analyses. RESULTS Negative IgM-RF (OR = 0.29; 95% Confidence Interval (CI)=0.10-0.85; p = 0.024) and lower Doppler sum score of 24 joints (OR(95%CI)=0.44;(0.15-0.87); p = 0.014) were independent predictors for successful discontinuation of bDMARD at 2-year follow-up. The predictive value of Doppler sum score was independent of MRI findings. Previous numbers of bDMARDs were predictive of successful tapering (OR(95% CI)=0.58(0.35-0.91); p = 0.018), whereas ultrasound was not. Clinical parameters were not predictive for successful tapering/discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS Doppler sum score was an independent predictor for successful discontinuation of bDMARDs at 2-year follow-up - the odds for achieving successful discontinuation decreased by 56% per one-unit increase in Doppler sum score. Ultrasound could not predict successful tapering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene Terslev
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cecilie Heegaard Brahe
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Merete Lund Hetland
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,DANBIO registry, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Stylianos Georgiadis
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Karen Ellegaard
- The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Juul
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of head and orthopedics, Gentofte, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Tuan Huynh
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark.,Holte Rheumatology Clinic, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Uffe Møller Døhn
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Viktoria Fana
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Torsten Møller
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Simon Krabbe
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Lykke Midtbøll Ørnbjerg
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Daniel Glinatsi
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark.,Department of Rheumatology, Skaraborg Hospital, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Henrik Røgind
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Anette Hansen
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of head and orthopedics, Gentofte, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Jesper Nørregaard
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Søren Jacobsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Copenhagen Lupus and Vasculitis Clinic, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dorte Vendelbo Jensen
- DANBIO registry, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark.,Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of head and orthopedics, Gentofte, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Natalia Manilo
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of head and orthopedics, Frederiksberg, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Karsten Asmussen
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of head and orthopedics, Frederiksberg, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark
| | - Mikael Boesen
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Lone Morsel-Carlsen
- Department of Radiology, Bispebjerg-Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Mikkel Østergaard
- Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Center of Head and Orthopedics, Glostrup, Rigshospitalet, Capital Region, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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17
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Ochiai M, Tanaka E, Sato E, Inoue E, Abe M, Saka K, Sugano E, Sugitani N, Higuchi Y, Yamaguchi R, Sugimoto N, Ikari K, Nakajima A, Yamanaka H, Harigai M. Successful discontinuation of biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in real-world settings. Mod Rheumatol 2021; 31:790-795. [PMID: 33538611 DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2021.1883252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyze the proportion of successful biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) discontinuation and related factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in clinical settings. METHODS Among 1775 RA patients who started bDMARDs between 2003 and 2012, 43 patients with DAS28-ESR <3.2 at the time of bDMARD discontinuation were extracted. Patients were divided into two groups (bio-free success: BS and bio-free failure: BF groups) based on bDMARD usage and disease activity 1 year after discontinuation. We evaluated the proportion of bio-free success and assessed factors related to bio-free success. RESULTS Twenty-five patients (58.1%: BS group) maintained discontinuation of bDMARDs and DAS28-ESR <3.2 at 1 year after discontinuation. The median DAS28-ESR at bDMARD initiation was lower in the BS group than in the BF group (3.95 vs 5.04; p = .04). The BS group experienced a larger decrease in average glucocorticoid (GC) dose during bDMARD use than the BF group (-3.0 mg/day vs 0 mg/day; p = .01). CONCLUSION bDMARDs were discontinued without flare up of RA in 58.1% of patients with RA in clinical settings. A lower DAS28-ESR at initiation and reduction of GC dose before discontinuation of bDMARD were important factors associated with bio-free success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moeko Ochiai
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eiichi Tanaka
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eri Sato
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Keyaki Total Clinic, Chiba, Japan
| | - Eisuke Inoue
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Research Administration Center, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mai Abe
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kumiko Saka
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eri Sugano
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naohiro Sugitani
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Higuchi
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rei Yamaguchi
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Sugimoto
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsunori Ikari
- Department of Orthopedics, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayako Nakajima
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Center for Rheumatic Diseases, Mie University Hospital, Mie, Japan
| | - Hisashi Yamanaka
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Rheumatology, Sanno Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Harigai
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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YAZICI A. Remisyonda olan romatoid artritli hastada tedavi kararı. EGE TIP DERGISI 2021. [DOI: 10.19161/etd.863635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Jagpal A, Singh JA. Treatment Guidelines in Rheumatoid Arthritis—Optimizing the Best of Both Worlds. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-020-00163-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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van Mulligen E, Weel AE, Hazes JM, van der Helm-van Mil A, de Jong PHP. Tapering towards DMARD-free remission in established rheumatoid arthritis: 2-year results of the TARA trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:1174-1181. [PMID: 32482645 PMCID: PMC7456559 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-217485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the 2-year clinical effectiveness of two gradual tapering strategies. The first strategy consisted of tapering the conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) first (i.e., methotrexate in ~90%), followed by the tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNF-inhibitor), the second strategy consisted of tapering the TNF-inhibitor first, followed by the csDMARD. METHODS This multicentre single-blinded randomised controlled trial included patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with well-controlled disease for ≥3 consecutive months, defined as a Disease Activity Score (DAS) measured in 44 joints ≤2.4 and a swollen joint count ≤1, which was achieved with a csDMARD and a TNF-inhibitor. Eligible patients were randomised into gradual tapering the csDMARD followed by the TNF-inhibitor, or vice versa. The primary outcome was the number of disease flares. Secondary outcomes were DMARD-free remission (DFR), DAS, functional ability (Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI)) and radiographic progression. RESULTS 189 patients were randomly assigned to tapering their csDMARD (n=94) or TNF-inhibitor (n=95) first. The cumulative flare rate after 24 months was, respectively, 61% (95% CI 50% to 71%) and 62% (95% CI 52% to 72%). The patients who tapered their csDMARD first were more often able to go through the entire tapering protocol and reached DFR more often than the group that tapered the TNF-inhibitor first (32% vs 20% (p=0.12) and 21% vs 10% (p=0.07), respectively). Mean DAS and HAQ-DI over time, and radiographic progression did not differ between groups (p=0.45, p=0.17, p=0.8, respectively). CONCLUSION The order of tapering did not affect flare rates, DAS or HAQ-DI. DFR was achievable in 15% of patients with established RA, slightly more frequent in patients that first tapered csDMARDs. Because of similar effects from a clinical viewpoint, financial arguments may influence the decision to taper TNF-inhibitors first.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelique E Weel
- Rheumatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Maasstad Ziekenhuis, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - J M Hazes
- Rheumatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Annette van der Helm-van Mil
- Rheumatology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
- Rheumatology, Leiden Universitair Medisch Centrum, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
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21
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Biological Dose Tapering in Daily Clinical Practice: A 10 Year Follow-up Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 16:319-323. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reuma.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Dose tapering of biologic agents in patients with rheumatoid arthritis-results from a cohort study in Germany. Clin Rheumatol 2020; 40:887-893. [PMID: 32822057 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-020-05316-9] [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: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the association of demographic and clinical factors with the clinical decision of tapering biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in daily practice. METHODS All RA patients receiving bDMARDs were documented by 14 rheumatologists when presenting in 9 specialized private practices. Statistical analyses employed multivariable logistic models for dose reduction with the covariates age, gender, disease duration until bDMARD start, smoking status, disease activity, comorbidity, functional capacity, radiographic damage, concomitant methotrexate (MTX) treatment, rheumatoid factor positivity, and glucocorticoid use. In the multivariable model (MVM), missing values were imputed. RESULTS Data of 586 RA patients on bDMARD treatment were available, 171 of which (29%) received a reduced dose. The highest rates of patients with dose reduction were seen for rituximab (67%) and infliximab (50%). The degree of dose reduction was most prominent for rituximab (57%). In the MVM, 6/11 covariates were significantly associated with dose reduction: age (odds ratio (OR) 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.05; P = 0.002), time between disease onset and bDMARD start (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06; P = 0.015), DAS 28 < 2.6 (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.01-2.37; P = 0.045), MTX therapy (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.03-2.25; P = 0.036), comorbidity (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.01-1.42; P = 0.036), and glucocorticoid dose (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.76-0.89; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION DAS 28 remission, concomitant MTX, and lower glucocorticoid doses were positively associated with dose tapering of bDMARDs in RA patients. While this could be expected, the reason for the association with age, comorbidity, and the time between disease onset and bDMARD start is less clear. Key points • In rheumatology practice, tapering of biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs is feasible in nearly 30% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. • The degree of dose reduction may exceed 50% of the recommended dose. • In a multivariable model, concomitant methotrexate is positively associated with dose tapering of biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs.
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Lamers-Karnebeek FBG, Luime JJ, Jansen TL, van Riel PLCM, Jacobs JWG. Is radiographic progression a downside of stopping TNF-inhibitor in RA patients with low disease activity, if this is followed by flare? A sub-study of the POET-US trial. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 59:1170-1171. [PMID: 31652321 PMCID: PMC7188461 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jolanda J Luime
- Department of Rheumatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam
| | - Tim L Jansen
- Department of Rheumatology, Viecuri Medical Center, Venlo
| | - Piet L C M van Riel
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, IQ Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen
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Vinson D, Molet-Benhamou L, Degboé Y, den Broeder A, Ibrahim F, Pontes C, Westhovens R, Závada J, Pham T, Barnetche T, Constantin A, Ruyssen-Witrand A. Impact of tapering targeted therapies (bDMARDs or JAKis) on the risk of serious infections and adverse events of special interest in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or spondyloarthritis: a systematic analysis of the literature and meta-analysis. Arthritis Res Ther 2020; 22:97. [PMID: 32349791 PMCID: PMC7191828 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-020-02188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To systematically review the impact of tapering targeted therapies (bDMARDs or JAKis) on the risk of serious infections and severe adverse events (SAEs) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) in remission or low disease activity (LDA) state. MATERIALS AND METHODS A meta-analysis based on a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, until August 2019, as well as relevant databases of international conferences, was used to evaluate the risk difference (RD) at 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of incidence density of serious infections, SAEs, malignancies, cardiovascular adverse events (CV AEs), or deaths after tapering (dose reduction or spacing) compared to continuation of targeted therapies. RESULTS Of the 1957 studies initially identified, 13 controlled trials (9 RA and 4 SpA trials) were included in the meta-analysis. 1174 patient-years were studied in the tapering group (TG) versus 1086 in the usual care group (UC). There were 1.7/100 patient-year (p-y) serious infections in TG versus 2.6/100 p-y in UC (RD (95% CI) 0.01 (0.00 to 0.02), p = 0.13) and 7.4/100 p-y SAEs in TG versus 6.7/100 p-y in UC (RD 0.00 (- 0.02 to 0.02), p = 0.82). The risk of malignancies, CV AEs, or deaths did not differ between the tapering and the usual care groups. Subgroup analysis (RA and SpA) detected no significant differences between the two groups. CONCLUSION We could not show significant impact of tapering bDMARD or JAKi over continuation concerning the risk of serious infections, SAEs, malignancies, CV AEs, or deaths in RA and SpA patients in remission or LDA state.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Vinson
- Rheumatology Department, CHU Sainte Marguerite, 270 Boulevard de Sainte-Marguerite, 13009, Marseille, France.
| | | | - Y Degboé
- INSERM U1043, CPTP, Toulouse, France
| | - A den Broeder
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, 6500 GM, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - F Ibrahim
- Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Department of Inflammation Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King's College London, Cutcombe Road, London, SE5 9RJ, UK
| | - C Pontes
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Unitat docent Parc Taulí-Medical School-Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Westhovens
- Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Rheumatology University Hospitals Leuven, KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - J Závada
- First Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Rheumatology and Department of Rheumatology, Charles University, Na Slupi 4, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - T Pham
- Rheumatology Department, CHU Sainte Marguerite, 270 Boulevard de Sainte-Marguerite, 13009, Marseille, France
| | - T Barnetche
- Rheumatology Department, Pellegrin Hospital, Bordeaux, France
| | - A Constantin
- Rheumatology Department, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France
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Dierckx S, Sokolova T, Lauwerys BR, Avramovska A, de Bellefon LM, Toukap AN, Stoenoiu M, Houssiau FA, Durez P. Tapering of biological antirheumatic drugs in rheumatoid arthritis patients is achievable and cost-effective in daily clinical practice: data from the Brussels UCLouvain RA Cohort. Arthritis Res Ther 2020; 22:96. [PMID: 32345367 PMCID: PMC7189594 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-020-02165-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/purpose Studies have demonstrated that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who achieve low disease activity or remission are able to taper biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the proportion of patients in whom bDMARDs can be tapered in daily practice and to analyse the characteristics of these patients. Other objectives were to analyse which bDMARDs are more suitable for dose reduction and the cost savings. Results Data from 332 eligible RA patients from our Brussels UCLouvain cohort were retrospectively analysed; 140 patients (42.1%) received a tapered regimen, and 192 received stable doses of bDMARDs. The age at diagnosis (43.1 vs 38.7 years, p = 0.04), health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) score (1.3 vs 1.5, p = 0.048), RF positivity rate (83.3 vs 72.9%, p = 0.04) and disease duration at the time of bDMARD introduction (9.7 vs 12.1 years, p = 0.034) were significantly different between the reduced-dose and stable-dose groups. Interestingly, relatively more patients receiving a tapered dose were treated with a combination of bDMARDs and methotrexate (MTX) (86.7% vs 73.8%, p = 0.005). In our cohort, anti-TNF agents were the most commonly prescribed medications (68%). Only 15 patients experienced a flare during follow-up. Adalimumab, etanercept and rituximab were the most common bDMARDs in the reduced-dose group and were associated with the most important reductions in annual cost. Conclusion In daily practice, tapering bDMARDs in RA patients who have achieved low disease activity or remission is an achievable goal in a large proportion of patients, thereby reducing potential side effects and annual drug-associated costs. The combination of bDMARDs with MTX could improve the success of dose reduction attempts. Trial registration This retrospective non-interventional study was retrospectively registered with local ethics approval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Dierckx
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tatiana Sokolova
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bernard R Lauwerys
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Aleksandra Avramovska
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laurent Meric de Bellefon
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Adrien Nzeusseu Toukap
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Stoenoiu
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Frédéric A Houssiau
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Patrick Durez
- Rheumatology, Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc - Université catholique de Louvain - Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Brussels, Belgium.
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Precision medicine and management of rheumatoid arthritis. J Autoimmun 2020; 110:102405. [PMID: 32276742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2020.102405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Precision medicine (PM) is a very commonly used term that implies a highly individualized and tailored approach to patient management. There are, however, many layers of precision, as for example taking an appropriate patient history, or performing additional lab or imaging tests are already helping to better tailor treatments to the right patient. All this adds to the narrower definition of PM, which implies using the unique molecular characteristics of a patient for management decisions. Big data has become an essential part of PM, including as much information as possible to improve precision of disease management, although integration of multi-source data continues to be a challenge in practical application. In research big data can identify new (sub-)phenotypes in unsupervised analyses, which ultimately advance precision by allowing new targeted therapeutic approaches. We will discuss the current status of PM in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the management areas of diagnosis, prognosis, selection of therapy, and decision to reduce therapy. PM markers for diagnosis of RA are usually markers of RA classification rather than diagnosis, and subtypes of RA are potentially underrecognized. Prognostic precision is well established for RA, including markers of disease activity or structure, as well as autoantibodies and genetics. The choice of the right compound in a patient identified to have a poor prognosis, however, remains widely arbitrary. Finally and most recently, the most reliable markers for a safe withdrawal of therapy continue to be lower levels of disease activity and longer presence of remission.
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Svedbom A, Dalén J, Ivergård M, Borse RH, Black CM, Luttropp K, Kachroo S. The value of persistence in treatment with subcutaneous TNF-alpha inhibitors for ankylosing spondylitis. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2020; 21:45-54. [PMID: 31522361 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-019-01110-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the impact of persistence on cost-effectiveness of subcutaneous tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors (SC-TNFis) from healthcare and societal perspectives in a United Kingdom ankylosing spondylitis (AS) population using a recently published Markov cohort model. METHODS A recently published cost-effectiveness model developed for a National Institute for health and Care Excellence appraisal was extended to fit the current study; in brief, it is a Markov cohort model where treatment responders continue from the trial period with maintenance SC-TNFi treatment, while non-responders transition to conventional care. Costs and effects were modeled for a hypothetical SC-TNFi with average efficacy and price. Model outcomes included quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), total direct and indirect lifetime costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). The cost-effectiveness of SC-TNFi persistence was estimated by decreasing the annual discontinuation probability in five percentage point increments from 25 to 5% per annum. RESULTS From a health care perspective, the ICERs for the modeled discontinuation rates compared to the baseline annual discontinuation rate (25%) ranged between GBP 17,277 and GBP 18,161. From a societal perspective, increased discontinuation rates resulted in decreased total costs and higher QALYs; hence, lower discontinuation rates dominated higher discontinuation rates from a societal perspective. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this study shows that, all else equal, higher SC-TNFi treatment persistence in AS is cost effective from a health care perspective and dominant from a societal perspective. Hence, all else equal, prescribing the SC-TNFi with the highest persistence may be considered a cost-effective strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Svedbom
- Real-World Strategy and Analytics, ICON Clinical Research, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Dalén
- Real-World Strategy and Analytics, ICON Clinical Research, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Moa Ivergård
- Real-World Strategy and Analytics, ICON Clinical Research, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rebekah H Borse
- Center for Observational and Real-World Evidence, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Christopher M Black
- Center for Observational and Real-World Evidence, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Karin Luttropp
- Real-World Strategy and Analytics, ICON Clinical Research, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sumesh Kachroo
- Center for Observational and Real-World Evidence, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA.
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Tanaka Y, Oba K, Koike T, Miyasaka N, Mimori T, Takeuchi T, Hirata S, Tanaka E, Yasuoka H, Kaneko Y, Murakami K, Koga T, Nakano K, Amano K, Ushio K, Atsumi T, Inoo M, Hatta K, Mizuki S, Nagaoka S, Tsunoda S, Dobashi H, Horie N, Sato N. Sustained discontinuation of infliximab with a raising-dose strategy after obtaining remission in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: the RRRR study, a randomised controlled trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:94-102. [PMID: 31630117 PMCID: PMC6937411 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-216169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study is to determine whether the 'programmed' infliximab (IFX) treatment strategy (for which the dose of IFX was adjusted based on the baseline serum tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α)) is beneficial to induction of clinical remission after 54 weeks and sustained discontinuation of IFX for 1 year. METHODS In this multicentre randomised trial, patients with IFX-naïve rheumatoid arthritis with inadequate response to methotrexate were randomised to two groups; patients in programmed treatment group received 3 mg/kg IFX until week 6 and after 14 weeks the dose of IFX was adjusted based on the baseline levels of serum TNF-α until week 54; patients in the standard treatment group received 3 mg/kg of IFX. Patients who achieved a simplified disease activity index (SDAI) ≤3.3 at week 54 discontinued IFX. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients who sustained discontinuation of IFX at week 106. RESULTS A total of 337 patients were randomised. At week 54, 39.4% (67/170) in the programmed group and 32.3% (54/167) in the standard group attained remission (SDAI ≤3.3). At week 106, the 1-year sustained discontinuation rate was not significantly different between two groups; the programmed group 23.5% (40/170) and the standard group 21.6% (36/167), respectively (2.2% difference, 95% CI -6.6% to 11.0%; p=0.631). Baseline SDAI <26.0 was a statistically significant predictor of the successfully sustained discontinuation of IFX at week 106. CONCLUSION Programmed treatment strategy did not statistically increase the sustained remission rate after 1 year discontinuation of IFX treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiya Tanaka
- Department of the First Department of Internal Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Koji Oba
- Clinical Research and Medical Innovation Center, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takao Koike
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Miyasaka
- Department of Rheumatology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsuneyo Mimori
- Department of Rheumatology, Ijinkai Takeda General Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Takeuchi
- Department of Rheumatology, Keio University, School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shintaro Hirata
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Eiichi Tanaka
- Department of Rheumatology, School of Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidekata Yasuoka
- Department of Rheumatology, Keio University, School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Kaneko
- Department of Rheumatology, Keio University, School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kosaku Murakami
- Deapartment of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Koga
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Nakano
- Department of the First Department of Internal Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Koichi Amano
- Department of Rheumatology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Kawagoe, Japan
| | | | - Tatsuya Atsumi
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | - Kazuhiro Hatta
- Department of General Medicine, Tenri Hospital, Tenri, Japan
| | - Shinichi Mizuki
- The Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Matsuyama Red Cross Hospital, Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan
| | - Shouhei Nagaoka
- Department of Rheumatology, Yokohama Minami Kyosai Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Hiroaki Dobashi
- Division of Hematology, Rheumatology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Miki, Japan
| | - Nao Horie
- Clinical Research and Medical Innovation Center, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Norihiro Sato
- Clinical Research and Medical Innovation Center, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
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Verhoef LM, den Broeder N, Thurlings RM, van der Laan WH, van der Weele W, Kok MR, Bernelot Moens HJ, Woodworth TG, van den Bemt BJF, van den Hoogen FHJ, den Broeder AA. Ultra-low doses of rituximab for continued treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (REDO study): a randomised controlled non-inferiority trial. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2019; 1:e145-e153. [PMID: 38229391 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(19)30066-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rituximab is an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, given as either two doses of 1000 mg (2 weeks apart) every 6 months (the dose recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency) or two doses of 500 mg (2 weeks apart) or one dose of 1000 mg (a standard low dose) every 6 months. Findings of several small uncontrolled studies suggest that doses lower than the recommended dose or standard low dose might be sufficient for maintenance treatment, potentially improving safety and reducing costs. Therefore, we aimed to compare the efficacy of ultra-low doses of rituximab (one dose of 500 mg or 200 mg) with a standard low dose of rituximab (one dose of 1000 mg) for patients with rheumatoid arthritis who respond to standard doses of rituximab. METHODS The REDO study is a randomised, double-blind, non-inferiority trial done at five centres in the Netherlands. Adults (aged ≥18 years) with rheumatoid arthritis responding well to rituximab were randomly allocated (1:2:2) to receive intravenous rituximab as one dose of either 1000 mg, 500 mg, or 200 mg, respectively. Volumes of all doses were equal to achieve masking. Randomisation lists were computer-generated and stratified by rheumatoid factor or anti-citrullinated protein antibody status (positive or negative) and concomitant use of conventional synthetic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (yes or no). The primary analysis was a per-protocol hierarchical testing procedure comparing ultra-low doses with a standard low dose (500 mg vs 1000 mg at 3 months, followed by 500 mg vs 1000 mg at 6 months, 200 mg vs 1000 mg at 3 months, and 200 mg vs 1000 mg at 6 months), using a non-inferiority margin of 0·60 on change from baseline in the 28-joint disease activity score based on C-reactive protein levels (DAS28-CRP). The study is registered at www.trialregister.nl, NTR6117. FINDINGS Between Dec 15, 2016, and Sept 20, 2018, 142 patients were randomly allocated to either 1000 mg rituximab (n=29), 500 mg rituximab (n=58), or 200 mg rituximab (n=55). The 500 mg dose was non-inferior to 1000 mg at 3 months (mean change from baseline in DAS28-CRP, -0·07, 95% CI -0·41 to 0·27) but not at 6 months (0·29, -0·08 to 0·65). Because of the hierarchical testing procedure, non-inferiority could not be tested for the 200 mg dose. 13 patients had serious adverse events, three (10%) in the 1000 mg group, six (10%) in the 500 mg group, and four (7%) in the 200 mg group. The most frequently reported serious adverse events were cardiovascular. No deaths occurred during the study. A significantly lower incidence of infections was seen in the ultra-low-dose groups compared with the standard dose group (1·10 infections per patient-year with the 1000 mg dose vs 0·52 per patient-year with the 500 mg dose and 0·51 per patient-year with the 200 mg dose; rate ratio 0·47, 95% CI 0·21-0·83; p=0·013 for 500 mg vs 1000 mg; 0·44, 0·22-0·88; p=0·019 for 200 mg vs 1000 mg). INTERPRETATION Our study did not show non-inferiority of ultra-low doses of rituximab for continued treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Nonetheless, in clinical practice, a strategy with an ultra-low dose of rituximab might be considered after evaluation of risks and benefits, although further studies are needed to establish non-inferiority. Further analyses and a 2-year observational extension are ongoing and should provide further insight into efficacy and safety. FUNDING Menzis and Centraal Ziekenfonds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise M Verhoef
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | - Marc R Kok
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Thasia G Woodworth
- Department of Medicine/Division of Rheumatology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bart J F van den Bemt
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Department of Pharmacy, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Frank H J van den Hoogen
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Department of Rheumatic Diseases, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Alfons A den Broeder
- Department of Rheumatology, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Department of Rheumatic Diseases, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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Can we wean patients with inflammatory arthritis from biological therapies? Autoimmun Rev 2019; 18:102399. [PMID: 31639516 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2019.102399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Biological therapies have represented a cornerstone in the treatment of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Their advent combined with implementation of a treat-to-target approach has meant that remission or low disease activity are now realistic targets for treatment achieved by a significant number of patients. However, biologicals are not risk free and their elevated costs continue to present an important economic burden to national healthcare services. "Can we wean patients with inflammatory arthritis from biological therapies?" Over the last decade this question has become increasingly important as to define the best management strategies in terms of efficacy, safety and economic outcomes. Not surprisingly this has generated an interesting debate as to whether reasons to taper biologics outweigh reasons not to taper and evidence in support of either of these schools of thought is persistently growing. AIM: In this article we reviewed the contents of the relevant session from the 2019 Controversies in Rheumatology and Autoimmunity meeting in Florence.
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Sanmarti R, Veale DJ, Martin‐Mola E, Escudero‐Contreras A, González C, Ercole L, Alonso R, Fonseca JE, Alcañiz C, Álvaro‐Gracia JM, Balsa A, Pablos JL, Miguel CD, Rodríguez JM, Alves J, Aurrecoechea E, Calvo J, Belzunegui J, Blanco F, Caliz R, Calvo J, Ivorra JR, Canhão H, Santos H, Chamizo E, Pino J, Delgado C, Díaz C, Nebro AF, Fraser A, Gomez A, Hernández B, Navarro F, Povedano J, Mas AJ, Kane D, Whelan B, Marras C, Moreno J, Venegas JP, Pombo M, Riera E, Rosas A, Ryan J, Santos J, Santos M, Tornero J, Tovar JV, Ucar E, Vasconcelos C, Veiga R, Vela P. Reducing or Maintaining the Dose of Subcutaneous Tocilizumab in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis in Clinical Remission: A Randomized, Open‐Label Trial. Arthritis Rheumatol 2019; 71:1616-1625. [DOI: 10.1002/art.40905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Douglas J. Veale
- St. Vincent's University Hospital and University College Dublin Belfield Dublin Ireland
| | | | - Alejandro Escudero‐Contreras
- Rheumatology Service Reina Sofia Hospital Maimonides Institute for Research in Biomedicine of Cordoba University of Cordoba Cordoba Spain
| | | | | | | | - João E. Fonseca
- Universidade de Lisboa and Hospital de Santa Maria CHLN Lisbon Portugal
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Stamp LK, Chan SJ, Marra C, Helme C, Treharne GJ. Tapering biologic therapy for people with rheumatoid arthritis in remission: A review of patient perspectives and associated clinical evidence. Musculoskeletal Care 2019; 17:161-169. [PMID: 31148375 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Biologic therapies have increased the control of disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Questions remain about tapering biologics when remission is achieved in RA. The patient perspective has to be incorporated in pragmatic applications of tapering but is rarely accounted for in clinical studies of tapering. The aim of the present review was to summarize the evidence about RA patient perspectives on biologic tapering. METHODS We provided a narrative summary of the currently small body of research on patient perspectives retrieved through systematic searches with an emphasis on seeking qualitative research. In addition, we provided an update on relevant clinical research and financial considerations that frame the findings on patient perspectives. RESULTS Financial considerations around commencing/continuing on biologic therapies in RA vary internationally and have implications for patient perspectives. Recent clinical studies indicate that the benefit of tapering biologic therapy when in remission are predicted by drug concentration and aspects of disease activity, severity and duration. Three major concerns have been identified from studies of patient perspectives on biologic tapering: (a) disease relapse; (b) access to treatment in the case of disease flare when tapering; and (c) local motivation for dose reduction (i.e., driven by funding or health benefit). CONCLUSIONS More research is needed on tapering biologics, and should include studies of patient perspectives as well as health economic evaluations. Patient decision aids are a potential way of applying clinical and patient-focused evidence to help all parties come to a decision, but require developmental research and pragmatic evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa K Stamp
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, Aotearoa/New Zealand
| | - Suz Jack Chan
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin, Aotearoa/New Zealand
| | - Carlo Marra
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin, Aotearoa/New Zealand
| | - Caitlin Helme
- Department of Psychology, University of Otago, Dunedin, Aotearoa/New Zealand
| | - Gareth J Treharne
- Department of Psychology, University of Otago, Dunedin, Aotearoa/New Zealand
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Uhrenholt L, Schlemmer A, Hauge EM, Christensen R, Dreyer L, Suarez-Almazor ME, Kristensen S. Dosage reduction and discontinuation of biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis: protocol for a pragmatic, randomised controlled trial (the BIOlogical Dose OPTimisation (BIODOPT) trial). BMJ Open 2019; 9:e028517. [PMID: 31292181 PMCID: PMC6624054 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The The BIOlogical Dose OPTimisation (BIODOPT) trial is a pragmatic, multicentre, randomised controlled, open-label, parallel-group, equivalence study designed to evaluate tapering of biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) in sustained clinical remission or low disease activity (LDA). Traditionally, these patients maintain standard dosage of bDMARD lifelong; however, recent studies indicate that a significant proportion of patients in sustained remission or LDA can taper their bDMARD and maintain stable disease activity. Thus, this trial aims to evaluate whether a disease activity-guided tapering strategy for bDMARDs will enable a significant dosage reduction while maintaining disease activity compared with usual care. From the individual patient's standpoint as well as from a societal perspective, it would be advantageous if bDMARDs could be reduced or even discontinued while maintaining disease activity. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A total of 180 patients with RA, PsA or axSpA treated with bDMARDs and in clinical remission/LDA during the past 12 months will be enrolled from four centres in Denmark. Patients will be randomised in a ratio of 2:1 to either disease activity-guided tapering of bDMARDs (intervention group) or continuation of bDMARDs as usual care (control group).The primary objective is the difference between the two groups in the proportion of patients who have reduced their inclusion dosage of bDMARDs to 50% or less while maintaining stable disease activity at 18 months follow-up. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study is approved by the ethics committee of Northern Jutland, Denmark (N-20170073) and by the Danish Medicine Agency. Patient research partner KHH contributed to refinement of the protocol and approved the final manuscript. Results will be disseminated through publication in international peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER 2017-001970-41; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Uhrenholt
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Musculoskeletal Statistics Unit, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Annette Schlemmer
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ellen-Margrethe Hauge
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Robin Christensen
- Musculoskeletal Statistics Unit, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Research Unit of Rheumatology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Lene Dreyer
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Maria E Suarez-Almazor
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Salome Kristensen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
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Smolen JS, Pedersen R, Jones H, Mahgoub E, Marshall L. Impact of flare on radiographic progression after etanercept continuation, tapering or withdrawal in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2019; 59:153-164. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
The structural consequences of flare after dose reduction/discontinuation of biologic DMARDs in patients with RA who achieve remission are unclear. We compared the incidence of radiographic progression in patients with RA who did and did not experience flare after etanercept (ETN) reduction/withdrawal.
Methods
Eligible adults with moderately active RA despite MTX received ETN 50 mg plus MTX weekly in a 36-week, open-label induction period; patients achieving sustained low disease activity by week 36 were randomized to ETN 50 mg plus MTX, ETN 25 mg plus MTX, or placebo plus MTX in a 52-week, double-blind maintenance period. In post hoc analyses, radiographic progression (Δ modified total Sharp score ⩾0.5 units/year) was compared in patients with and without flare [based on DAS28 relapse (main analysis), and clinical disease activity index and simplified disease activity index relapse (sensitivity analyses)]. Findings from patients receiving full- and reduced-dose combination therapy were pooled for comparison with those from patients receiving MTX only.
Results
Significantly more patients receiving MTX monotherapy experienced flare, defined as DAS28 relapse (62% vs 21%; P < 0.0001) and radiographic progression (17% vs 9%; P < 0.001), than patients receiving full-/reduced-dose combination therapy in the double-blind period. Patients with flare defined as clinical disease activity index and simplified disease activity index relapse had higher rates of radiographic progression than those without flare in the full-/reduced-dose combination therapy group (P < 0.01).
Conclusion
Radiographic progression may be a consequence of flare after biologic DMARD dose reduction/withdrawal in patients with RA. If these approaches are taken, careful monitoring for signs/symptoms of relapse is needed.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, https://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT00565409.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef S Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine 3, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Heather Jones
- Global Medical Affairs, Pfizer, Collegeville, PA, USA
| | - Ehab Mahgoub
- Global Medical Affairs, Pfizer, Collegeville, PA, USA
| | - Lisa Marshall
- Global Medical Affairs, Pfizer, Collegeville, PA, USA
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Turkish League Against Rheumatism (TLAR) Recommendations for the Pharmacological Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: 2018 Update Under Guidance of Current Recommendations. Arch Rheumatol 2019; 33:251-271. [PMID: 30632540 DOI: 10.5606/archrheumatol.2018.6911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aims to report the assessment of the Turkish League Against Rheumatism (TLAR) expert panel on the compliance and adaptation of the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) 2016 recommendations for the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Turkey. Patients and methods The EULAR 2016 recommendations for the treatment of RA were voted by 27 specialists experienced in this field with regard to participation rate for each recommendation and significance of items. Afterwards, each recommendation was brought forward for discussion and any alteration gaining ≥70% approval was accepted. Also, Turkish version of each item was rearranged. Last version of the recommendations was then revoted to determine the level of agreement. Levels of agreement of the two voting rounds were compared with Wilcoxon signed-rank test. In case of significant difference, the item with higher level of agreement was accepted. In case of no difference, the changed item was selected. Results Four overarching principles and 12 recommendations were assessed among which three overarching principles and one recommendation were changed. The changed overarching principles emphasized the importance of physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists as well as rheumatologists for the care of RA patients in Turkey. An alteration was made in the eighth recommendation on treatment of active RA patients with unfavorable prognostic indicators after failure of three conventional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Remaining principles were accepted as the same although some alterations were suggested but could not find adequate support to reach significance. Conclusion Expert opinion of the TLAR for the treatment of RA was composed for practices in Turkish rheumatology and/or physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics.
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Scott IC, Ibrahim F, Panayi G, Cope AP, Garrood T, Vincent A, Scott DL, Kirkham B. The frequency of remission and low disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and their ability to identify people with low disability and normal quality of life. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2018; 49:20-26. [PMID: 30685064 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treat-to-target in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) recommends targeting remission, with low disease activity (LDA) being an alternative goal. When deciding to target remission or LDA, important considerations are the likelihood of attaining them, and their impacts on function and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We have addressed this by studying: (a) the frequency of remission and LDA/remission; (b) DAS28-ESR trends after remission; (c) ability of remission vs. LDA to identify patients with normal function (HAQ ≤ 0.5) and HRQoL (EQ-5D ≥ the normal population). METHODS We studied 571 patients in two clinical trials, and 1693 patients in a 10-year routine care cohort. We assessed the frequency and sustainability of remission and LDA/remission, variability in DAS28-ESR after remission, and sensitivity/specificity of remission and LDA/remission at identifying patients with low disability levels and normal HRQoL using Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curves. RESULTS Point remission and remission/LDA were common (achieved by 35-58% and 49-74% of patients, respectively), but were rarely sustained (sustained remission and remission/LDA achieved by 5-9% and 9-16% of patients, respectively). Following attaining remission, DAS28-ESR levels varied substantially. Despite this, of those patients attaining point remission, the majority (53-61%) were in remission at study end-points. Whilst remission was highly specific at identifying patients with low disability (85-91%) it lacked sensitivity (51-57%); similar findings were seen for normal HRQoL (specificity 78-86%; sensitivity 52-59%). The optimal DAS28-cut-off to identify individuals with low disability and normal HRQoL was around the LDA threshold. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support both the treat-to-target goals. Attaining remission is highly specific for attaining low disability and normal HRQoL, although many patients with more active disease also have good function and HRQoL. Attaining a DAS28-ESR ≤ 3.2 has a better balance of specificity and sensitivity for attaining these outcomes, with the benefit of being more readily achievable. Although sustaining these targets over time is rare, even attaining them on a one-off basis leads to better function and HRQoL outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- I C Scott
- Research Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Primary Care Sciences, Keele University, Staffordshire, UK; Department of Rheumatology, Haywood Hospital, Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, High Lane, Burslem, Staffordshire, UK.
| | - F Ibrahim
- Department of Rheumatology, 3rd Floor, Weston Education Centre, King's College Hospital, Cutcombe Road, London, UK
| | - G Panayi
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trust, 4th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - A P Cope
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trust, 4th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK; Academic Department of Rheumatology, Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology of Inflammation, 1st Floor, New Hunt's House, Guy's Campus, King's College London, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - T Garrood
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trust, 4th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - A Vincent
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trust, 4th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
| | - D L Scott
- Department of Rheumatology, 3rd Floor, Weston Education Centre, King's College Hospital, Cutcombe Road, London, UK
| | - B Kirkham
- Department of Rheumatology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trust, 4th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London, UK; Academic Department of Rheumatology, Centre for Molecular and Cellular Biology of Inflammation, 1st Floor, New Hunt's House, Guy's Campus, King's College London, Great Maze Pond, London, UK
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Hewlett S, Haig‐Ferguson A, Rose‐Parfitt E, Halls S, Freke S, Creamer P. Dose reduction of biologic therapy in inflammatory arthritis: A qualitative study of patients' perceptions and needs. Musculoskeletal Care 2018; 17:63-71. [PMID: 30398699 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hewlett
- Department of NursingUniversity of the West of England Bristol UK
| | | | | | - Serena Halls
- Department of NursingUniversity of the West of England Bristol UK
| | - Samuel Freke
- Rheumatology UnitNorth Bristol NHS Trust Bristol UK
| | - Paul Creamer
- Rheumatology UnitNorth Bristol NHS Trust Bristol UK
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Tapering and Discontinuation of Biologics in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis with Low Disease Activity. Drugs 2018; 78:1705-1715. [DOI: 10.1007/s40265-018-0994-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Ruscitti P, Sinigaglia L, Cazzato M, Grembiale RD, Triolo G, Lubrano E, Montecucco C, Giacomelli R. Dose adjustments and discontinuation in TNF inhibitors treated patients: when and how. A systematic review of literature. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2018; 57:vii23-vii31. [PMID: 30289540 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/key132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To review the available evidence concerning the possibility of discontinuing and/or tapering the dosage of TNF inhibitors (TNFi) in RA patients experiencing clinical remission or low disease activity. Methods A systematic review of the literature concerning the low dosage and discontinuation of TNFi in disease-controlled RA patients was performed by evaluation of reports published in indexed international journals (Medline via PubMed, EMBASE), in the time frame from 8 April 2013 to 15 January 2016. Results We analysed the literature evaluating the efficacy and the safety of two different strategies using TNFi, decreasing dosage or discontinuation, in patients experiencing clinical remission or low disease activity. After the analysis of online databases, 25 references were considered potentially relevant and 16 references were selected. The majority of data concerned etanercept and adalimumab. Results suggested the induction of stable clinical remission or low disease activity by using TNFi followed by a dosage tapering and/or discontinuation of such drugs may be associated with the maintenance of a good clinical response in a subset of patients affected by early disease. Conclusion RA patients treated early with TNFi and achieving their therapeutic clinical targets seem to maintain their clinical response after tapering or discontinuing TNFi. These data may allow physicians a more dynamic and tailored management of RA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Ruscitti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila
| | | | | | | | - Giovanni Triolo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo
| | - Ennio Lubrano
- Department of Medicine and Health Science 'Vincenzo Tiberio', University of Molise, Campobasso
| | - Carlomaurizio Montecucco
- Rheumatology and Translational Immunology Research Laboratories (LaRIT) and Biologic Therapy Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation/University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberto Giacomelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila
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Inui K, Koike T, Tada M, Sugioka Y, Okano T, Mamoto K, Sakawa A, Fukushima K, Nakamura H. Clinical and radiologic analysis of on-demand use of etanercept for disease flares in patients with rheumatoid arthritis for 2 years: The RESUME study: A case-control study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e12462. [PMID: 30235736 PMCID: PMC6160256 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000012462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
To reduce costs of biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs), we evaluated the efficacy of repeated etanercept (ETN) discontinuation and restarting in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in a case-control study.Thirty-one bDMARD-naive RA patients with moderate to high disease activity received ETN until low disease activity (LDA) was achieved, after which ETN was discontinued. Upon flaring, ETN was readministered with observation every 2 months for 2 years, and radiographically evaluated in comparison with a historical control group treated continuously with ETN. Statistical methods including Fisher exact test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), Kruskal-Wallis test, multiple regression analysis, and Student t test were conducted as appropriate.Thirteen patients with inadequate response to ETN were withdrawn from the study, and 5 had no flare-up after ETN discontinuation. In the remaining 13 patients, ETN was used on-demand to maintain LDA. Multivariate analysis revealed that MTX was significantly correlated with ETN. All 13 patients achieved LDA at final follow-up. Although joint damage progressed in patients using ETN on-demand, structural damage progression in the on-demand group was not significantly different from that in controls.On-demand use of ETN for flaring reduced disease activity but not structural damage in 50% of patients (though not significantly). However, inhibition of joint damage was achieved in 50% of patients after 2 years, supporting on-demand use of ETN as a treatment option for patients with RA who cannot afford bDMARD or targeted synthetic DMARD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Inui
- Department of Rheumatosurgery
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
| | - Tatsuya Koike
- Center for Senile Degenerative Disorders, Osaka City University Medical School, Abeno-ku, Osaka
- Search Institute for Bone and Arthritis Disease (SINBAD), Shirahama Foundation for Health and Welfare, Shirahama-cho, Wakayama
| | - Masahiro Tada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka City General Hospital, Miyakojima-ku
| | - Yuko Sugioka
- Center for Senile Degenerative Disorders, Osaka City University Medical School, Abeno-ku, Osaka
| | | | | | - Akira Sakawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka City Juso Hospital, Yodogawa-ku
| | - Kenzo Fukushima
- Orthopaedic Surgery, Fujiidera Municipal Hospital, Fujiidera City, Osaka, Japan
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41
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Gremese E, Fedele AL, Alivernini S, Ferraccioli G. Ultrasound assessment as predictor of disease relapse in children and adults with arthritis in clinical stable remission: new findings but still unmet needs. Ann Rheum Dis 2018; 77:1391-1393. [PMID: 29860230 PMCID: PMC6161664 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2018-212941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Gremese
- Division of Rheumatology, IRCCS-Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Fedele
- Division of Rheumatology, IRCCS-Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Alivernini
- Division of Rheumatology, IRCCS-Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Ferraccioli
- Division of Rheumatology, IRCCS-Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
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Bugatti S, Sakellariou G, Luvaro T, Greco MI, Manzo A. Clinical, Imaging, and Pathological Suppression of Synovitis in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Is the Disease Curable? Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:140. [PMID: 29868592 PMCID: PMC5962817 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has witnessed a dramatic revolution in recent years, and disease remission has become an increasingly achievable outcome. Rheumatologists are now facing the urgent question of whether, once remission has been achieved and stably maintained, drugs can be tapered, and even discontinued. The concept of disease remission however encompasses progressive layers of complexity, all of which need to be disentangled before considering RA as a “curable” condition. As the synovial membrane represents the ultimate target of the pathological process of RA, a critical issue remains whether disease remission coincides with true suppression of inflammation and definitive tissue “healing.” In this short review, we will provide a critical summary of recent studies investigating the possibility of controlling RA synovitis at the clinical, imaging or pathological level. Potential advantages and limitations of these perspectives in the definition of remission are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Bugatti
- Division of Rheumatology, Rheumatology and Translational Immunology Research Laboratories (LaRIT), IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation and University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Garifallia Sakellariou
- Division of Rheumatology, Rheumatology and Translational Immunology Research Laboratories (LaRIT), IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation and University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Terenzj Luvaro
- Division of Rheumatology, Rheumatology and Translational Immunology Research Laboratories (LaRIT), IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation and University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria Immacolata Greco
- Division of Rheumatology, Rheumatology and Translational Immunology Research Laboratories (LaRIT), IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation and University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Manzo
- Division of Rheumatology, Rheumatology and Translational Immunology Research Laboratories (LaRIT), IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation and University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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