Abstract

Certolizumab Pegol as a Therapeutic Option for Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Following Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drug Failure: A Treatment Approach

Author(s): Perez Pesciallo

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation and progressive joint damage. Early intervention with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) is essential to control disease activity and prevent irreversible joint damage. However, not all patients respond adequately to initial DMARD therapy, necessitating alternative treatment strategies. Certolizumab pegol is a novel biologic DMARD that has shown efficacy in the treatment of RA. This study aims to evaluate the use of certolizumab pegol as a therapeutic option for patients with early RA who have experienced inadequate response or intolerance to conventional DMARDs.

Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify clinical trials, observational studies, and case reports that assessed the use of certolizumab pegol in early RA patients after DMARD failure. Data on disease activity, radiographic progression, functional outcomes, and safety were extracted and analyzed.

Results: The review identified several studies that demonstrated the effectiveness of certolizumab pegol in reducing disease activity, preventing radiographic progression, and improving functional outcomes in early RA patients who had previously failed conventional DMARD therapy. The safety profile of certolizumab pegol was generally favorable, with no unexpected or serious adverse events reported.

Conclusion: Certolizumab pegol appears to be a promising treatment option for early RA patients who do not respond adequately to conventional DMARDs. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and establish optimal treatment regimens. Certolizumab pegol offers a valuable addition to the therapeutic armamentarium for the management of early RA, potentially improving the long-term outcomes and quality of life for these patients.