Non-TNFi Biologics vs Targeted Synthetic DMARDs for Rheumatoid Arthritis
(RA-PROPR Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial is testing advanced medications for RA patients who haven't responded to standard treatments. It compares biologic drugs that target immune proteins and synthetic drugs that block harmful molecules in immune cells. The goal is to see which treatment improves patients' quality of life and daily functioning better. Biologic therapies have notably improved the treatment of RA, making disease remission a realistic goal.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You may need to stop certain medications before joining the trial. If you are taking leflunomide, sulfasalazine, cyclosporine, or azathioprine, you must stop them at least 2 months before starting the study. However, you can continue taking conventional synthetic DMARDs like methotrexate, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine, and leflunomide if you've been on a stable dose for at least 4 weeks before the study.
What data supports the effectiveness of the drugs used in the clinical trial for rheumatoid arthritis?
Research shows that tocilizumab and TNF inhibitors are effective for rheumatoid arthritis, especially after other treatments have been tried. Tocilizumab, in particular, has been compared favorably to TNF inhibitors in certain cases, suggesting it can be a strong option for patients who have not responded to other biologic drugs.12345
What safety data exists for Non-TNFi Biologics and Targeted Synthetic DMARDs in humans?
TNF inhibitors do not show an increased risk of cancer and have a lower risk of blood clots compared to conventional DMARDs. Tocilizumab, an interleukin-6 inhibitor, may increase the risk of intestinal perforations. Janus kinase inhibitors, like tofacitinib, can increase the risk of shingles. Rituximab is effective but not usually a first choice due to safety concerns.15678
How do non-TNFi biologics and targeted synthetic DMARDs for rheumatoid arthritis differ from other drugs?
Non-TNFi biologics and targeted synthetic DMARDs offer alternative mechanisms of action compared to traditional TNF inhibitors, targeting specific pathways in the immune system. This can be beneficial for patients who do not respond well to TNF inhibitors, providing more personalized treatment options.145910
Research Team
Jasvinder Singh, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for patients with active, disabling rheumatoid arthritis who have not improved after using a TNFi-biologic for at least 3 months or stopped due to side effects. They must be on stable doses of certain other medications if used and have access to the study drugs through insurance or assistance programs. People with recent steroid injections, sensitivity to all drug options in the trial, certain infections, untreated hepatitis B/C, pregnant/nursing women, HIV history, multiple prior biologics use or specific heart conditions cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants switch to either a non-TNFi biologic or a targeted synthetic DMARD for treatment of active RA
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- non-TNFi-biologic class
- targeted synthetic DMARD class
- TNFi-biologic class
- tsDMARD class
non-TNFi-biologic class is already approved in European Union, United States for the following indications:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- Giant cell arteritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis
- Giant cell arteritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lead Sponsor
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Collaborator