Portuguese Recommendations for the use of biological therapies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis- 2016 update

To update the recommendations for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) with biological therapies, endorsed by the Portuguese Society of Rheumatology (SPR).

These treatment recommendations were formulated by Portuguese rheumatologists based on literature evidence and consensus opinion. At a national meeting the 10 recommendations were discussed and updated. The document resulting from this meeting circulated to all Portuguese rheumatologists, who anonymously voted online on the level of agreement with the recommendations.

These recommendations cover general aspects as shared decision, prospective registry in Reuma.pt, assessment of activity and RA impact and treatment objective. Consensus was also achieved regarding specific aspects as initiation of biologic therapy, assessment of response, switching and definition of persistent remission.

These recommendations may be used for guidance of treatment with biological therapies in patients with RA. As more evidence becomes available and more therapies are licensed, these recommendations will be updated.