As per the outcomes of the network meta-regression techniques published in Arthritis Research & Therapy journal, the use of only EU approved subcutaneous (SC) formulation of infliximab (CT-P13 SC) displayed higher clinical response rates, low disease activity and clinically meaningful improvement in functional disability than intravenous (IV) infliximab formulations (CT-P13 IV).

The data of total 949 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients from two randomised trials were distinguished to study the efficacy of SC formulation of infliximab with IV formulation, and; IV formulation of infliximub with reference IV formulation of infliximab.

Along with disease activity scores, the changes from starting position in remission rates and clinically significant improvement in functional disability based on the Health Assessment Questionnaire–Disability Index (HAQ-DI) were studied.

The pooled data for 840 patients and 751 patients were assessed at weeks 30 and 54, individually. At 30 weeks, statistically significant differences were observed in 28-joint Disease Activity Score as per C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP); Simplified and Clinical Disease Activity Index ((SDAI and CDAI) scores supporting the use of CT-P13 SC in RA patients.

These differences remained consistent through weeks 30 to 54 supporting the use of CT-P13 SC. Comparison of SC with IV formulations and reference infliximab IV revealed similar outcomes.

CT-P13 SC can serve as an useful substitute to infliximab IV, as deduced.