Science News for June 13, 2015

Dose reduction strategy can substantially reduce high cost of TNF inhibitor therapy in RA

A dose reduction strategy for TNF inhibitors can maintain good clinical response in RA patients even when the dose is reduced by one-third. Reducing the dose by two-thirds results in more flares, but these subsided when the higher dose was restarted.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 13, 2015

Patients with primary hand OA should not be prescribed hydroxychloroquine

A new trial found that hydroxychloroquine does not reduce pain, disability, or joint stiffness in patients with primary hand osteoarthritis. The study suggests that this medication should no longer be prescribed for this condition, highlighting the need for alternative treatment options.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 13, 2015