German pharma watch dog finds benefits for biologicals in RA

The German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) examined nine biotechnologically produced drugs for the treatment of adults with rheumatoid arthritis in whom prior pharmacological treatment had failed. According to the findings, for each drug the data provide proof, an indication, or at least a hint of a benefit in relation to at least one outcome criterion, the IQWiG concluded in its final report.

In comparison to the preliminary report, additional data and studies confirm the positive effect of biologics. However, there is a lack of long-term data and robust direct comparisons of biologics with each other to be able to assess which of these drugs are better or less suited in second-line therapy.

Alleviation of pain and prevention of damage to joints