To evaluate the efficacy, radiographic changes and safety of the combination of recombinant human tumor necrosis factor-α receptor II IgG Fc fusion protein (rhTNFR:Fc) and methotrexate (MTX) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
30 RA patients were treated with rhTNFR:Fc (25 mg subcutaneously twice weekly) and oral MTX (up to 15 mg weekly) in an open-label manner. Clinical response was assessed by American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria and Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28). Radiographs of hands and wrist were assessed by the modified Sharp score.
At Week 24, ACR20, ACR50 and ACR70 responses were achieved by 90%, 76.67% and 46.67% respectively. At Week 24, the mean DAS28 was 3.65 ± 1.26 versus 6.41 ± 0.61 at baseline (P < 0.001). And 20% patients achieved remission and 16.67% patients had a low disease activity. At week 24, EULAR good and moderate responses were attained by 36.67% and 60% respectively. Similarly, Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) improved significantly, declining from 1.12 at baseline to 0.36 at week 24 (P < 0.001). No radiographic progression (based on change of total Sharp score) was found in 27 cases. Adverse events were mild.
rhTNFR:Fc in combination with MTX shows an excellent efficacy of reduced disease activity, improved function and slowed radiographic progression through 24 weeks. A combination therapy for 24 weeks can lead to disease remission and an inhibition of radiographic progression. Further study is warranted.