Lessons for the use of non-biologic anchor treatments for rheumatoid arthritis in the era of biologic therapies

Optimizing the use of key non-biologic drugs (MTX, prednisone) may prolong disease control, thereby delaying the need for costly biologic therapies. A number of lessons about the optimal use of therapy emerge from clinical studies. Clinical outcomes with non-biologic treatments, given early in the course of the disease, are as good as with biologic treatments. Combinations of treatments are usually required to achieve rapid and sustained remission. MTX remains an important anchor drug for RA therapy and should be given as soon as the diagnosis is made.

As early disease control is important, the dose of MTX should be escalated rapidly to adequate levels. Tolerability of MTX is generally good relative to that of other alternative treatments. MTX (s.c.) may be considered if the response to oral MTX is inadequate or MTX is poorly tolerated. In addition to suppressing signs and symptoms of RA, glucocorticoids appear to have disease-modifying effects, at least in early RA. The disease-modifying effects of glucocorticoids probably persist after discontinuation of therapy. The risk of adverse effects of low-dose glucocorticoids is often overestimated. Administration of low-dose glucocorticoids in accordance with physiological circadian rhythms may bring efficacy and safety benefits. As a case in point, the CAMERA (Computer Assisted Management in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis) II study applied these lessons and has clearly shown the benefits of optimizing MTX and prednisone therapy.