(June 29, 2009 - Insidermedicine) A new drug in the class known as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors is beneficial for those with rheumatoid arthritis who did not benefit from other TNF inhibitors, according to research published in The Lancet.

Here is some information on rheumatoid arthritis:

•    It is a chronic disease in which the lining of the joints becomes inflamed

•    It can lead to long-term damage of the joints as well as chronic pain and disability

•    It is a systemic disease, so it can also affect other organs of the body

Researchers from the Medical University of Vienna assigned nearly 500 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who did not obtain relief from other TNF inhibitors to treatment with a high or low dose of golimumab, or placebo. The treatment was given every 4 weeks for 24 weeks.

After 14 weeks, 35% of those on the low dose and 38% on the high dose had at least a 20% improvement in their symptoms. Only 18% of those on placebo saw this much improvement. Importantly, this powerful drug was well-tolerated through the 24 weeks.

We had a chance to speak with Dr. Josef Smolen, the principal investigator of this study, who offered some further insight.

Today's research highlights the benefits of golimumab and demonstrates that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis who do not respond to one TNF inhibitor may respond to another.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Kelly Schweitzer.