In a nutshell
This study examined whether switching from infliximab (Remicade) to a similar drug had any influence on performance or side effects in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study concluded that switching from infliximab to CT-P13 was safe and effective for patients with RA.
Some background
In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the immune system attacks the healthy joints the way it would a virus or bacteria. Infliximab (Remicade) is a common biological drug used to treat RA. This drug works by blocking the activity of proteins that are known to contribute to the over-activation of the immune system. A new drug called CT-P13 (Remsima) is being developed that will work in the same way that infliximab does. This type of drug is also known as a biosimilar. Biosimilars are usually more affordable than the original drug.
The main issues when creating biosimilars are proving that they work in a similar way to the original drug and the possibility of side effects. CT-P13 is one of the first biosimilars to be developed for RA. It has already been shown to be safe and effective.
Methods & findings
The current study examined whether switching from infliximab to CT-P13 was safe and effective.
302 patients were recruited from an earlier study where 158 had received CT-P13 treatment (group 1) and 144 had received infliximab treatment (group 2) for 54 weeks. For this study, all the patients received follow-up treatment of CT-P13 alone over 40 weeks. Disease activity (such as the number of swollen or painful joints) and side effects were measured.
The study showed no differences between the patients who switched from infliximab to CT-P13 and those who received CT-P13 throughout the study. After 40 weeks, 71.7% of those in group 1 and 71.8% of group 2 saw a 20% improvement in disease activity. 24.3% of group 1 and 26.1% of group 2 saw a 70% improvement.
53.5% of group 1 and 53.8% of group 2 experienced side effects. Common side effects included a reaction to the drug infusion and infections.
The bottom line
This study concluded that switching from infliximab to CT-P13 was safe and effective for patients with RA.
The fine print
This study was funded by the company that currently produce the CT-P13 drug. Further clinical trials are needed to fully examine the similarities between the two drugs used in this study.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician about treatments that are currently available for rheumatoid arthritis.
Published By :
Annals of the rheumatic diseases
Date :
Apr 29, 2016
