Alqudah MAY, Al-Azzam S, Alzoubi K, Alkhatatbeh M, Alawneh K, Alazzeh O, Ababneh B. Effects of antirheumatic drug underutilization on rheumatoid arthritis disease activity.
Inflammopharmacology 2017;
25:431-438. [PMID:
28176199 DOI:
10.1007/s10787-017-0315-6]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Following the recommended guidelines is crucial for achieving patient remission in rheumatoid arthritis. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of proper drug utilization of antirheumatic drugs on disease activity and drug safety in Jordan.
METHODS
In a retrospective cross-sectional study, patient's demographics, clinical variables, drug regimens and side effects were recorded and the 28-joint disease activity scores were calculated. Patients were stratified into high, moderate, low disease activity or remission group.
RESULTS
Around 80% of patients were using methotrexate which was under-dosed in 82% of them. Only 25% were using biologic drugs. Surprisingly, only 10% of patients had low disease activity and only 4% were in a remission state. Anaemia (32.3%) and mild renal impairment (27.6%) were the most common side effects.
CONCLUSIONS
The low frequency of well-controlled disease activity is interpreted by high occurrence of methotrexate underdosing and biologic agent underprescription. Implementing the role of a clinical pharmacist could have a real impact on tight control of such disease issues in Jordan.
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