Clinical efficacy of infliximab

A number of double blind, placebo-controlled studies have shown the efficacy of infliximab in rheumatoid arthritis.

In a study of 73 patients on infliximab alone (i.e. without concomitant methotrexate) a Paulus 20% response occurred in 79% on a dose of 10mg/kg, 44% on 1mg/kg and 8% on placebo.

In a 26 week study of 101 patients, Paulus 20% responses lasted longer with infliximab (1-10mg/kg) plus methotrexate (7.5mg/wk) - (>16.5 weeks) and infliximab (3mg/kg or 10mg/kg) plus placebo (10.4-17.2 wks) than with control therapy (0 weeks).

In a study of 428 patients on methotrexate and either infliximab or placebo over 54 weeks, ACR20 responses were obtained as follows: 3mg/kg every 4 weeks - 48%, 3mg/kg every 8 weeks - 42%, 10mg/kg every 4 weeks 59%, 10mg/kg every 8 weeks 59%, placebo 17%. Progression of radiographic erosions improved in those on infliximab and methotrexate.