[Biologics in the treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis : A comparison of mono- and combination therapy with synthetic DMARDs]

Abstract

In polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, methotrexate (MTX) is still used as first-line treatment. In case of insufficient response or intolerance, a number of biologics are now available. This faces physicians with challenging choices. Biologics are often combined with MTX, although in JIA there is little evidence and inconsistent results from various studies. In rheumatoid arthritis, combination therapy with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors has been associated with higher efficacy. Tocilizumab appears to be highly effective as a monotherapy. MTX has a protective effect on the formation of anti-drug antibodies, which is particularly important for the use of anti-TNF antibodies. This could also be observed in children. For golimumab, combination with MTX is mandatory according to its approval, as is the cause for abatacept. With regard to tolerability, apart from the classic side effects of MTX, there are no other significant differences concerning the combination of MTX and biologics. In case of MTX intolerance, leflunomide may be considered as an (unapproved) alternative.

Keywords: Antibodies; Antirheumatic agents; Drug tolerance; Methotrexate; Tumor necrosis factor.