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Biologic monotherapy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors Detert J, Klaus P
Received 19 December 2014
Accepted for publication 16 January 2015
Published 14 May 2015 Volume 2015:9 Pages 35—43
DOI https://doi.org/10.2147/BTT.S53361
Checked for plagiarism Yes
Review by Single-blind
Peer reviewer comments 3
Editor who approved publication: Dr Doris Benbrook
Video abstract presented by Jacqueline Detert
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Jacqueline Detert, Pascal Klaus
Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
Abstract: Biologics, possibly in combination with a conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) – preferably methotrexate (MTX), are used in accordance with the recommendations of the international rheumatological societies. However, in clinical practice, this recommendation is often problematic, as many rheumatologists know from personal experience. The quality of life of the patient is affected mainly by drug-induced intolerances (eg, MTX). Thus, the acceptance of the patient to treatment is often so inadequate that a discontinuation of the drug is necessary. In daily practice, approximately 30% of patients with biological therapy receive no concomitant DMARD according to the register data.
Keywords: efficacy, safety, methotrexate, autoimmune disease
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