What Are the Latest Advances in Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatments?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease primarily affecting the joints. Despite having effective treatments, ongoing research continually seeks new and improved methods for managing RA. Notable advancements include JAK inhibitors, BTK inhibitors, vagus nerve stimulation, stem cell therapies, and vaccines.

One significant development in RA treatment is the introduction of Tofidence (tocilizumab-bavi), a new drug approved by the FDA on September 29. Manufactured by Biogen, Tofidence serves as a biosimilar alternative to the U.S.-licensed Actemra (tocilizumab). This approval offers people with rheumatoid or juvenile arthritis an effective and safer alternative to costly biologic medications.

Surgical options for RA may include procedures like Synovectomy, which involves removing the inflamed joint lining (synovium) to alleviate pain and enhance joint flexibility, and Tendon repair, addressing inflammation and joint damage that may cause tendons around the joint to loosen or rupture.

The latest drugs for RA treatment are Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, FDA-approved under brand names such as Rinvoq, Olumiant, and Xeljanz. JAK inhibitors function by inhibiting the activity of one or more Janus kinase enzymes (JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, TYK2) in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, crucial for intracellular communication.

While there is no cure for RA, recent shifts in early intervention strategies and the availability of new medication classes have significantly improved patient outcomes. The introduction of biologics, a new class of drugs, has revolutionized RA treatment. These include Cimzia, Enbrel, Humira, Kineret, Orencia, and Remicade.

For more information on these developments, visit Verywell Health, HealthNews, Mayo Clinic, Drugs.com, Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, and WebMD.