Efficacy

Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) Efficacy in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is an oral medication that is classified as a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor. It is approved for the treatment of adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to methotrexate. Tofacitinib works by interfering with the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, which plays a key role in the inflammatory process of RA. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Xeljanz can reduce signs and symptoms of RA, improve physical function, and inhibit the progression of joint damage.

Several studies have shown the efficacy of Xeljanz in reducing the disease activity in RA patients. The ACR20 response rate, which is a 20% improvement in RA symptoms, is often used as a benchmark in clinical trials. Xeljanz has been shown to achieve ACR20 in a significant proportion of patients compared to placebo. Additionally, Xeljanz has also been found to be effective in patients who have had an inadequate response to TNF inhibitors, another class of medication commonly used to treat RA.

Truxima (Rituximab) Efficacy in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Truxima (rituximab) is a biosimilar to Rituxan and is a monoclonal antibody that targets the CD20 protein found on the surface of B cells, which are a type of white blood cell involved in the inflammatory process of RA. Truxima is used in combination with methotrexate in adult patients with moderate to severe active RA who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF inhibitor therapies. Clinical trials have shown that rituximab can reduce symptoms of RA, improve physical function, and slow the progression of joint damage.

The efficacy of rituximab in RA has been established through randomized controlled trials that have demonstrated significant improvements in ACR20, ACR50, and ACR70 response rates, which represent 20%, 50%, and 70% improvements in RA symptoms, respectively. The use of rituximab has also been associated with a reduction in the progression of joint damage as seen on X-rays. Additionally, rituximab has been shown to improve quality of life for many patients with RA who have not responded to other treatments.