The history of the use of sulphasalazine in rheumatology

Sulphasalazine was initially used more than 50 yr ago to treat inflammatory arthritis but fell into disuse, only to be revived 25 yr ago for rheumatoid arthritis. Since then its place as a second-line agent has been established and its toxicity profile has been outlined. Subsequently, its use has been widened to include other inflammatory rheumatic diseases, with strong suggestions that it may be useful for several indications. The history of its initial use, its reintroduction and the establishment of its place in modern rheumatology are reviewed.