
Biologics are genetically-engineered proteins derived from human and/or
animal genes. The use of biologics has significantly changed the management of rheumatoid
arthritis over the last decade, becoming the cornerstone treatment for
many patients.
Because the arsenal of biologics for rheumatoid arthritis
includes numerous monoclonal antibodies with various mechanisms of
action, it can be challenging to optimize treatments for individuals.
A new review of the medical literature indicates that blood concentrations of biologics can vary from patient to patient and may correlate with therapeutic response. Therefore, the use of a 'one dose fits all' approach, mainly proposed by pharmaceutical companies, needs to be reassessed. In general, individualized doses of biologics should be implemented in clinical practice.
"Moreover, the applicability of population pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic models in the clinical setting would allow us to select the suitable dose for specific patients at the same time a cost-efficient approach is considered."
Source: Eurekalert
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