TNF inhibitors are now widely used for the treatment of Rheumatoid arthritis. These drugs act by inhibiting the action of TNF that is involved in activating inflammatory cells and cytokines in patients with Rheumatoid arthritis.
TNF inhibitors are used as monotherapy or in combination with conventional biological DMARDs such as methotrexate for the treatment of moderate to severely active RA.
Using TNF inhibitors for the treatment of RA may offer some benefits compared to methotrexate:
- TNF Inhibitors have a relatively faster onset of action compared to methotrexate
- Most TNF inhibitors are categorized as pregnancy category B drugs and are considered very safe compared to methotrexate which is contraindicated in pregnancy.
- TNF inhibitors are more potent and have the potential of achieving disease remission in a greater percentage of RA patients compared to methotrexate.
- These drugs can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs in moderate and severely active RA.
However, using TNF inhibitors for Rheumatoid Arthritis may increase the risks of serious infections including mycobacterial and fungal infections. In addition, these drugs are very costly compared to conventional DMARDs such as methotrexate.
List of TNF Inhibitors for Rheumatoid Arthritis:
A list of TNF inhibitors for RA is given in the table below.
|
TNF Inhibitors for RA |
Date of Approval |
|
Etanercept |
2nd Nov 1998 |
|
Infliximab |
11th Nov 1999 |
|
Adalimumab |
31st December 2002 |
|
Certolizumab |
22nd April 2008 |
|
Golimumab |
24th April 2009 |
Although, the efficacy of all TNF inhibitors has been found comparable, here is a table demonstrating some differences between the various TNF inhibitors:
Medication |
Brand Name |
Route of Administration |
Dosage Form |
Dosage Frequency |
Approved Indications |
|
Enbrel |
Subcutaneous Injection |
Prefilled Syringe or Autoinjector |
Weekly |
|
|
|
Remicade |
Intravenous Infusion |
Vial |
Every 4-8 Weeks |
|
|
|
Simponi |
Subcutaneous Injection |
Prefilled Syringe or Autoinjector |
Every 4 Weeks |
|
|
|
Cimzia |
Subcutaneous Injection |
Prefilled Syringe or Autoinjector |
Every 2-4 Weeks |
|
|
|
Adalimumab |
Humira |
Subcutaneous Injection |
Prefilled Syringe or Autoinjector |
Every 1-2 Weeks |
|
In Conclusion:
In conclusion, TNF inhibitors are effective for treating rheumatoid arthritis. They have been shown to significantly reduce joint inflammation and pain, and slow down joint damage in patients.
However, it's important to weigh the benefits and potential risks of TNF inhibitors, as these drugs can have side effects and are not suitable for everyone. Despite their potential risks, TNF inhibitors have been a significant advancement in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, and have helped improve the quality of life for countless patients.
