Abatacept use in rheumatoid arthritis: evidence review and recommendations

Abstract

Objective: To review the clinical evidence on abatacept and to formulate recommendations in order to clear up points related to its use in rheumatology.

Method: An expert panel of rheumatologists objectively summarized the evidence on the mechanism of action, practicalities, effectiveness and safety of abatacept, and formulated recommendations following a literature review. The level of evidence and degree of recommendation was established.

Results: The document presents 21 statements focused on evidence or recommendations on abatacept (14 evidence summaries and 9 recommendations). The level of evidence was 2b or higher according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine scale on 14 occasions. The degree of the recommendation was A in two recommendations, C in one, and D in the rest. It was considered important to make recommendations on aspects with lower levels of evidence.

Conclusions: This is a practical document to supplement the summary of product characteristics.