OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the role of abatacept in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with respect to its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and adverse effect profile.

DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search (1966–November 2006) was conducted for primary and secondary literature. Search terms included BL125118, CTLA4-Ig, abatacept, and rheumatoid arthritis.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: All articles retrieved from the data sources were evaluated. The most relevant studies were selected and included in this review.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Abatacept is the first in a new class of RA agents with a unique mechanism of action. It is a selective costimulation modulator that inhibits T cell activation and other inflammatory mediators. This agent has been studied as an adjunct in patients who are receiving disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy and in those who have failed tumor necrosis factor-alfa antagonist therapy. Clinical trials were evaluated for information on abatacept’s indication, dosing, safety, and efficacy profile.

CONCLUSIONS: Abatacept has been shown to reduce signs and symptoms of RA and improve the condition of patients with moderately to severely active RA.

J Pharm Technol 2006;22:336-41.

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ACPE UNIVERSAL PROGRAM NUMBER: 407-000-06-056-H01