Comparative effectiveness of immunodepressive preparations in rheumatoid arthritis
Agadzhanian, G.N.; Balabanova, R.M.
Klinicheskaia Meditsina 66(8): 58-62
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0023-2149 PMID: 3193734 Document Number: 310888
The results of chlorbutin, azathioprine and methotrexate treatment of 60 patients with rheumatoid arthritis attended by systemic manifestations are presented. All the immunosuppressives were highly effective in case of peripheral systemic vasculitis; rheumatoid nodules disappeared in half the patients. Under the effect of these agents the articular syndrome and parameters of inflammation underwent positive changes, while humoral immunity status had a tendency to cyclic changes. Side effects disappeared in temporary discontinuation of the agents or decrease in their dose. Owing to high effectiveness of immunosuppressives they can be considered preparations of choice for treating rheumatoid arthritis with systemic manifestations; methotrexate and chlorbutin are superior in effect.