Drug Calms Many Types of Arthritis

March 13, 2002 -- Remicade is commonly used to ease the pain and inflammation seen with rheumatoid arthritis. And now a new study shows that it can provide long-term relief from the pain and stiffness of another group of common joint disorders that typically have been difficult to treat.

A new study found the drug was safe and effective at reducing the symptoms of a group of inflammatory diseases that affect the spine, joints, and associated tendons known as spondyloarthropathies.

These diseases affect about 1% of the population and include ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, and a condition that causes severe inflammation in the eye (uveitis). They can seriously affect the quality of life and mobility of those who suffer from them. And depending on the exact condition, they can cause stiffening of the spine and destruction of the joints in the hips, knees, wrists, and fingers.

Treatment options are limited for people with these disorders. Until recently, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen or Indocin, have been the main treatment -- in addition to physical therapy and exercise. But NSAIDs don't slow progression of the disease. Drugs such as Azulfidine, Trexall, and Methotrex may help slow down progression of the disease.

This new study, published in the March issue of Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, confirms the results of earlier studies on the long-term effectiveness and safety of the drug.

Among 21 people, researchers found those treated with Remicade experienced significant improvement in symptoms and disease activity. The improvements were maintained for a year, while patients were re-treated with an infusion of the drug every 14 weeks.

Some people did have a relapse of their symptoms while waiting for their next dose of Remicade. But symptoms did not return to the level before Remicade. This suggests that a new dosage schedule may be needed.