Publications

Kanda et al. investigated the efficacy of second-line b/tsDMARDs in RA patients unresponsive to first-line b/tsDMARDs. Using data from the FIRST registry, the study assessed 687 patients with RA treated with TNFis, IL-6 receptor inhibitors, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 immunoglobulin, or JAKis. After propensity score-based adjustment, JAKi showed the highest persistence rate, greatest improvement in CDAI, and highest remission rates at 24 weeks. Among JAKi, UPA was most effective in achieving remission, with a safety profile comparable to other b/tsDMARDs.

Baraliakos et al. evaluated the long-term safety and efficacy of bimekizumab in axSpA through a 2-year analysis of the BE MOBILE 1 and BE MOBILE 2 studies. Bimekizumab was well tolerated, with a consistent safety profile and no new safety signals. Clinical improvements, including ASAS40 response and MRI remission, were sustained through Wk104.

Miyazaki et al. investigated the efficacy and safety of switching to bDMARDs versus cycling among JAKis in RA patients with inadequate JAKi response. Cycling to another JAKi proved more effective in improving disease activity at 26 weeks compared to switching to a bDMARD, and both groups had similar safety profiles.

Edwards et al. reported that in patients with RA who achieved sustained LDA or remission, tapering baricitinib from 4mg to 2mg allowed most to maintain LDA at 96 weeks. Rescue with 4mg restored control for the majority, demonstrating the feasibility of dose reduction with recovery potential for treatment.

Heutz et al. found that patients requiring bDMARDs rarely achieved DMARD-free remission, while 15–37% of those on non-bDMARDs reached this milestone, underscoring significant differences based on treatment type. This suggests the EULAR recommendation against DMARD cessation may be too generalised.

Haraoui et al. conducted a subgroup analysis of the CANTORAL study, showing that tofacitinib effectiveness was similar in patients with or without CV risk enrichment. However, AEs, particularly in older patients (≥65 years), were more frequent in the CV+ cohort. These findings highlight the need for tailored CV risk management when treating RA with tofacitinib.

Buch et al. demonstrated that filgotinib sustained its efficacy in rheumatoid arthritis patients through Wk156 in the FINCH 4 long-term extension study, showing stable safety profiles. The study reported high ACR response rates and remission based on Boolean criteria, underlining filgotinib's potential for extended clinical benefits.