Specific drugs for a complex disease: can there be a magic bullet against rheumatoid arthritis?

Article Abstract:

Rheumatoid arthritis may not be treatable with a single drug that acts selectively, as the course of the disease changes over time and affects various parts of the body. T cells may play more of a role in the early stage of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), while cells that fight infection and cause inflammation may be more important in the advanced stage. Animal studies in which treatments have been targeted toward T cells have not proved a linkage between T cells and early RA in humans. The development of treatments that prevent the activation of certain immune responses may aid patients with advanced RA. Specific, selective drugs may not be successful by themselves in treating RA, but may be effective when combined with other drugs.

Antiarthritic agents

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Effect of resumption of second line drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis that flared up after treatment discontinuation

Article Abstract:

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis who experience a flare-up after discontinuing treatment may benefit from a resumption of treatment. This was the conclusion of a study of 51 patients in remission from rheumatoid arthritis who experienced a flare-up after they had stopped treatment. Thirty-five percent responded completely and 65% responded partially. About half responded within three months. Only four patients had to stop treatment due to lack of response. This study shows that many patients can stop treatment if they go into remission.

Antirheumatic agents

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