The drug Abatacept, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, may also prevent the disease in people at risk. This has been shown by a study published in the journal. Lancet.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) develops when the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells, causing joint pain, swelling, and decreased quality of life. There is no cure or prevention. Abatacept is considered one of the most effective drugs. It is given weekly by injection or IV.
Researchers from King’s College London recruited 213 men and women over the age of 18 who had early symptoms of RA: They had joint pain but no swelling. Half were treated with a placebo drug every week for a year, and the others were treated with Abatacept.
After 12 months of treatment, arthritis symptoms progressed in 6% of patients receiving Abatacept and 29% of patients in the placebo group. After 24 months – in 25% of patients receiving Abatacept versus 37% in the placebo group.
The drug reduced pain, inflammation of the joint lining (visible on ultrasound), and improved patients’ quality of life and mobility.
Side effects of abatacept include upper respiratory tract infections, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. Although these disorders are not typically life-threatening, their presence requires a way to identify patients who will benefit most from medication.
used to be a doctor saidWhat could be an intense swelling between the toes?