Leflunomide, Methotrexate Improve Function, Quality of Life in
Rheumatoid Arthritis


WESTPORT, Oct 19 (Reuters Health) - Leflunomide and methotrexate both produce significant improvements in physical function and
disease-related quality of life among patients with mild to moderate rheumatoid arthritis, according to a report published in the September
issue of Arthritis and Rheumatism.

 

In a 12-month multicenter clinical trial led by Dr. Peter Tugwell of the University of Ottawa, in Canada, investigators compared the efficacy and safety of leflunomide (20 mg/day after a loading dose of 100 mg/day for 3 days), methotrexate (7.5 mg/wk with an increase as needed to 15 mg/wk), and placebo in treating 438 patients with active rheumatoid
arthritis (RA).

Both drugs were well tolerated, with dose reductions required in only 3 of the 182 leflunomide patients and 4 of the 182 methotrexate patients. Based on the Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire, the Health
Assessment Questionnaire, Problem Elicitation Technique, and other assessments, both leflunomide and methotrexate led to significantly greater improvements than placebo in physical and social function, pain, vitality, and quality of life. Compared with methotrexate, leflunomide produced significantly greater improvements in several scores.

Dr. Tugwell and his team note that patients treated with leflunomide "...had higher energy levels, more vitality, and were able to enjoy more social activities without interference from physical or emotional problems." They add that leflunomide was also associated with
"...significant improvements in work productivity in those patients who engaged in paid employment, housework, and school."

Arthritis Rheum 1999;42:1870-1878.

Copyright © 1994-1999 by Medscape Inc.

 

DISCLAIMER:

The materials and information on this server are intended for educational and informational purposes only. The materials and information are not intended to replace the services of a trained health professional or to be a substitute for medical advice of physicians and/or other health care professionals. The International Still's Disease Foundation is not engaged in rendering medical or professional medical services. You should consult your physician on specific medical questions, particularly in matters requiring diagnosis or medical attention. The International Still's Disease Foundation makes no representations or warranties with respect to any treatment, action, application medication or preparation by any person following the information offered or provided within this website.  Any information used from other websites was done so with permission from each site, with an exception to those of "public domain", whereas we believe any site without a cited reference was a "public domain site" and for our use.  The International Still's Disease Foundation is a non-profit organization.   This page was last updated on June 13, 2002

Copyright© 1999-2002 International Still's Disease Foundation