Switching TNF Antagonists in Chronic Arthritis Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Juan J Gomez-Reino, Loreto Carmona
Primary Institution: Hospital Clinico Universitario, Medical School, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Hypothesis
What is the survival rate of TNF antagonists in patients who switch between them for chronic arthritis treatment?
Conclusion
Switching TNF antagonists can be beneficial for certain patients with chronic arthritis who do not respond to their initial treatment.
Supporting Evidence
- The cumulative discontinuation rate was calculated using the actuarial method.
- One- and two-year drug survival rates of the TNF antagonist were 0.83 and 0.75, respectively.
- Survival of the second TNF antagonist decreased to 0.68 and 0.60 at 1 and 2 years, respectively.
Takeaway
If a medicine for arthritis isn't working, doctors might try a different one to help patients feel better.
Methodology
The study analyzed patient data from a national registry to assess the survival rates of TNF antagonists in patients who switched treatments.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the voluntary nature of registry participation and the lack of a washout period.
Limitations
The study may have biases related to patient selection and treatment assignment.
Participant Demographics
The cohort included 3,130 women and 1,576 men with a mean age of 50 years, primarily diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.007
Confidence Interval
0.34–0.84
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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