Study: Enbrel Superior to Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis

A two-year trial of single therapies has shown etanercept (Enbrel) to be superior to methotrexate for both easing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and preventing structural damage from the disease, according to researchers at Stanford University.

The largest and longest study to date included 512 early rheumatoid arthritis patients at high risk for severe disease progression. Patients randomly were divided into three groups which received 10 milligrams etanercept, 25 milligrams etanercept, and methotrexate.

All participants had at least 10 swollen joints, three bone erosions documented by x-ray, and morning stiffness lasting at least 45 minutes.

Results of the study, appearing in Arthritis and Rheumatism, showed 72 percent of patients receiving 25 milligrams etanercept had met the American College of Rheumatology's 20 percent improvement criteria, compared with 59 percent of those who received methotrexate.

Etanercept patients had less bone erosion and joint space narrowing, as well.

Additionally, 55 percent of the 25 mg. etanercept patients showed significant improvements in quality of life, compared with 37 percent of those receiving methotrexate.

Other sources: Arthritis and Rheumatism