To review the specific mechanism of action of biologic response modifiers and help clinicians place these new drugs in the context of established therapies for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Review of scientific literature, including all the clinical trials for these drugs.
Referral to a rheumatologist should be strongly considered as soon as the diagnosis of RA is made. Early referral to a specialist has been associated with improved health status for patients with RA due to early and aggressive therapy with these new agents.
Biologic response modifiers target key inflammatory events involved in joint destruction. They have the potential to revolutionize the management of RA.