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[A short-term randomized controlled study with methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis]
G R Pinheiro1, M Helfenstein Júnior, M B Ferraz
1Disciplina de Reumatologia da Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo.
Revista Da Associacao Medica Brasileira (1992)
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Methotrexate (MTX) significantly improved pain, grip strength, and function in rheumatoid arthritis patients compared to placebo. MTX demonstrated a favorable safety profile with mild adverse effects, supporting its use in treatment.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation.
- Effective and safe treatment options for RA are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
- Methotrexate (MTX) is a widely used disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) for RA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of methotrexate (MTX) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- To compare the effects of MTX versus placebo on pain, grip strength, and functional ability in RA patients.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, controlled, double-blind study was conducted.
- Thirty-six patients with RA were enrolled; 28 completed the study.
- Patients were assigned to either the MTX group or the placebo group.
Main Results:
- MTX-treated patients showed statistically significant improvements in pain (p < 0.05).
- Significant improvements in grip strength and functional ability were observed in the MTX group.
- Mild adverse effects were reported in 4 MTX patients and 2 placebo patients.
Conclusions:
- Methotrexate (MTX) is effective in improving key symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- MTX exhibits a favorable toxicity profile, with predominantly mild adverse effects.
- The study supports the established role of MTX as a valuable treatment for RA.