Real-Life Data in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Using Baricitinib at a Single Center

INTRODUCTION: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) poses a significant health challenge, characterized by chronic immune-mediated inflammation and potential joint damage. This study explores the real-life effectiveness of Baricitinib, a Janus kinase inhibitor, in treating RA patients. The goal is to assess its impact on disease activity and factors influencing treatment outcomes.
METHODS: Ninety RA patients, diagnosed between September 2021 and 2023 at Necmettin Erbakan University Meram Medical Faculty Hospital, were retrospectively analyzed. Baricitinib, prescribed during this period, was evaluated for its impact on C-reactive protein (CRP), Disease Activity Score-28 with CRP (DAS28/CRP), and overall treatment continuation rates. Demographic and clinical data, including rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) markers, were collected.
RESULTS: Significant reductions in CRP and DAS28/CRP values were observed over a 12-week follow-up after Baricitinib use. Positive detection rates for RF and anti-CCP were 60% and 57.8%, respectively. Baricitinib demonstrated a high continuation rate (82%) at an average of 9.37 months. No significant differences were found in continuation rates based on prior use of conventional or biologic DMARDs.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Comparisons with existing studies support the efficacy of Baricitinib in improving disease activity. Our findings align with literature, emphasizing positive outcomes in patients with prior DMARD experience. Unlike some studies reporting higher discontinuation risks, our results highlight a favorable safety profile. The study's limitations include a short follow-up period, warranting further investigation with larger cohorts. In conclusion, Baricitinib exhibits promising real-life effectiveness in RA treatment, emphasizing its role as a valuable therapeutic option.