To investigate the efficacy and safety of Infliximab (IFX) plus methotrexate (MTX) combination therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Prospectively observe refractory RA patients who were treated with combination therapy of MTX and IFX. IFX was infused at the dosage of 3 mg/kg, in week 0, 2, 6, and then every 8 weeks. During treatment, clinical variables, disease activity and adverse effects were evaluated.
After treatment, 69.8%, 52.4%, 29.5% and 7.2% RA patients achieved ACR20, ACR50, ACR70 and ACR90 respectively. There were significant statistical differences in the changes of swollen joint counts, tender joint counts, VAS scale, patient' s global assessment, and physician's global assessment before and after therapy.
Infliximab plus MTX achieved significant efficacy and safety in refractory RA patients.