ACTEMRA Inhibits Progression Of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Roche has presented the results of a two-year data from the Lithe study at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR). Reportedly, with long-term use, patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with Actemra (tocilizumab, known as RoActemra within the EU) plus methotrexate (MTX) suffered 81% less damage to their joints compared to those treated with MTX, the current standard therapy, alone. For patients, this means that their joint damage is significantly reduced, and that they can therefore continue to enjoy their lives without the evolving disability usually associated with the disease.

Furthermore, data from two long-term extension studies also being presented at the meeting demonstrate that the percentage of Actemra patients achieving remission from their disease increased steadily over a 3-year period, from 27% at 24 weeks to 62% at 180weeks.

Josef Smolen, professor at University of Vienna, Austria, said:”These data confirm that tocilizumab is very effective at inhibiting the damage to joints which is characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis. This impressive effect on joints, coupled with the previously shown ability of tocilizumab to provide relief from the signs and symptoms of RA gives it an important role within clinical practice. Successful remission with tocilizumab may help to restore a patient’s sense of freedom, without painful flare-ups or fear of long-term disability.”