Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) biologics are the well-recognized clinical approach used to manage rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Out of various TNF antagonists, Infliximab is the first one which counters the issue, but some of the patients fail to provide satisfactory response against this drug. The study presents Golimumab, an another TNF antagonists as a clinically suitable replacement to manage the disease.

The patients having rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and fail to respond or do not respond towards anti-TNF (tumor necrosis factor) biologics, shifting to another anti-TNF might be an efficient way to control disease progression related symptoms. The study aimed to determine the efficacy and implementation of intravenous Golimumab among the RA patients that were previously on to infliximab.

Five US-based rheumatology practices searched to collect patient charts and extracted data regarding Infliximab and Intravenous Golimumab Utilization Data, Treatment Characteristics, Patient demographics, Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data (RAPID3), Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI), Physician Global Assessment (PhGA) and Patient Global Assessment (PtGA). The condition of disease pre- and post-induction of intravenous Golimumab therapy was noted down to evaluate its efficacy.

A total of 113 patient charts were selected that exhibited a considerable reduction in patient disease activity under intravenous Golimumab treatment. The PhGA and CDAI scores also reduced significantly, and the number of patients acquired remission increased (p < 0.05). The PtGA and RAPID3 presented with limited changes.

The intravenous Golimumab is efficient in treating RA among patients shifting instantly from infliximab (mean last dose 7.4 mg/kg).