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Author Spotlight: Enhancing Rheumatoid Arthritis Research Through HR-pQCT Imaging Analysis
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Author Spotlight: Enhancing Rheumatoid Arthritis Research Through HR-pQCT Imaging Analysis

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Drug-related problems experienced by rheumatoid arthritis patients during the first three months of methotrexate use:

M A M Oude Lansink1,2,3, S A S Pongers4, C L Bekker5

  • 1Department of Research, Sint Maartenskliniek, Hengstdal 3, 6574 NA, Ubbergen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. m.oudelansink@maartenskliniek.nl.

International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy
|April 3, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Rheumatoid arthritis patients report many drug-related problems (DRPs) within three months of starting methotrexate (MTX). Addressing these issues early can improve treatment adherence and persistence.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Rheumatology
  • Patient Care

Background:

  • Methotrexate (MTX) is a primary treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
  • Drug-related problems (DRPs) frequently occur with MTX, impacting patient adherence and treatment persistence.
  • Understanding early DRPs is crucial for optimizing RA management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify the incidence and types of DRPs in RA patients during the initial three months of MTX therapy.
  • To identify common patient-reported DRPs associated with early MTX use.

Main Methods:

  • A longitudinal observational study was conducted with adult RA patients initiating MTX.
  • Patient interviews were performed at 2, 6, and 12 weeks post-initiation using a standardized guide.
  • DRPs were classified using a patient-reported DRP system and analyzed descriptively.

Main Results:

  • All 50 participants experienced at least one DRP, with a median of 6 DRPs per patient.
  • The most common DRPs included concerns about side-effects, nausea, fatigue, and medication adherence/understanding.
  • A significant proportion (33%) of DRPs identified at weeks 2 and 6 remained unresolved by week 12.

Conclusions:

  • RA patients encounter a high number of DRPs early in their MTX treatment course.
  • Prompt resolution of DRPs is essential for reducing treatment burden and enhancing patient adherence and persistence.
  • Early intervention strategies are needed to manage DRPs effectively in RA patients on MTX.
Keywords:
Antirheumatic agents/therapeutic useArthritisDrug utilizationDrug-related side effects and adverse reactionsMethotrexatePatient compliancePharmaceutical servicesRheumatoid/drug therapy

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