Moderate RA Progresses Despite Methotrexate Use

Rheumatoid arthritis patients with sustained moderate disease, despite two-three years of methotrexate treatment, are at risk for significant radiographic progression, a new study shows. The study, published in the July 28, 2015 issue of Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases, shows that patients with sustained moderate rheumatoid arthritis (RA), despite having received methotrexate treatment (MTX), are at risk of significant radiographic progression (SRP). MTX is the most common first-line treatments for RA and it is an important one. It is considered to be a drug anchor in which anti-rheumatic drugs and biologics bind to, however, it has long been associated with inhibiting radiographic progression. The challenge for physicians has been in determining which patients will respond to MTX.  

facilitate early, aggressive treatment wherenecessary and avoid unnecessary treatmentescalation in patients with moderate activity atlow/no risk of SRP.Even lists.

Source:  Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases

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References:

Fautrel B, Nab HW, Braukt Y, et al. Identifying patients with rheumatoid arthritis with moderate disease activity at risk of significant radiographic progression despite methotrexate treatment.Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases. July 28, 2015. doi:10.1136/rmdopen-2014-000018.