Several studies have been conducted into to effectiveness of the newest class of drugs, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha blockers, in treating rheumatoid arthritis. But there have been no published studies comparing TNF-alpha blockers with the older class of drugs, known as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS), such as Remicade (infliximab), Enbrel (etanercept), and Humira (adalimumab).
Recently a team of Spanish researchers, led by Dr Alberto Alonso-Ruiz has reviewed the findings of 13 clinical trials involving over 7,000 participants to compare anti-TNF to DMARDS. The team analyzed the data to determine the benefits and side effects of different doses of the drugs.
The team determined that all of the trials showed that, with the proper dose, anti-TNF were better for treating rheumatoid arthritis than drugs like methotrexate.
The research also pointed out, however, that those patients using anti-TNF drugs were more likely to complain of adverse side effects. In addition, patients that were using etanercept experienced the lowest withdrawal rates due to adverse events.
“Performing comparisons of new drugs is vital for measuring safety/efficacy relationships and monitoring adverse side-effects” said Dr. Alonzo-Ruiz.
Their research was published in the journal BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.
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Originally posted 2008-05-02 15:36:39. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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