- Drug Benefit Trends Vol 21 No 7
- Volume 21
- Issue 7
Rheumatologists Embrace Biologics Despite Coverage Limits
As the number of biologic agents for rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-and rheumatologists’ use of these agents for RA and other rheumatological diseases-grows, getting coverage for RA treatment is taking an increasing investment of physicians’ staff time. However, the majority of respondents to a recent survey say it is an investment in patient care that is worth making.
The treatment of persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and related conditions received a boost with the development and FDA approval of several biologic therapies. The recently launched therapies, which are either injected or infused, target components of the aberrant immune response that causes damage to the joints in persons with RA, often slowing or even halting joint destruction. As such, these agents provide an alternative approach for those whose disease is not controlled by anti-inflammatory agents or disease-modifying drugs. About two-thirds of persons with RA for whom biologics are prescribed respond favorably to them,1 with most experiencing remission of their disease. RA affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans.2
Rheumatologists have been eager to prescribe the new agents, particularly for patients who have not responded well to other therapies. In a survey completed by 98 rheumatologists practicing in the United States, all said they prescribe biologic agents for select patients-and not just for those with RA. Several biologics have also received FDA approval for ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis, with similar positive results.