Three RTX Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis Put to the Test

German researchers tested three rituximab (RTX) dosing regimens and found they have similar efficacy for rheumatoid arthritis cases that no longer respond to methotrexate.

Additionally, they found that retreatment after 24 weeks produces a more sustained response through 48 weeks.

The study appears in the latest edition of Rheumatology and was completed by Andrea Rubbert-Roth, MD, and colleagues, of the University of Cologne, Germany, The randomized study examined the efficacy and safety of the three different regimens in active rheumatoifd arthritis patients that were already involved on a stable methotrexate regimen.

The patientsrecieved either two doses of RTC at baseline and again in 24 months and were places in one of three groups. One group received 2 x 500 mg and 2 X 500 mg; another received 2 x 500 mg and 2 x 1000 mg; and the third received 2 x 1000 mg and 2 x 1000 mg.

According to the results, the researchers concluded that “Although RTX doses and retreatment regimens could not be clearly differentiated, several efficacy outcomes favored treatment with RTX 2 × 1000 mg. Repeat treatment at Week 24 with RTX maintained the response achieved with the first course and may be associated with improved efficacy outcomes," the authors wrote.