This report analysed data from the first 12 months of registrations on the NZRA Biologics Register, which was initiated at the same time as the launch of public funding of Humira for the treatment of adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on 1 January 2006. Data concerned 244 patients, representing 84.4% of Pharmac approvals; 80% of the patients were female, the mean age was 56 years and mean disease duration was 13 years. Europeans were overrepresented and Mäori significantly under-represented (3.8%). Upon commencing Humira, 70% were taking prednisone at a mean daily dose of 10mg. At first reapplication, compliance with the registry was 82%, and the following disease activity measures had decreased from baseline; ESR 42 to 23, CRP 37 to 11 , tender swollen joint count 20 to 2.7, physician global VAS 75 to 20 mm, patient global VAS 74 to 25 mm, pain VAS 71 to 23 mm, HAQ 1.78 to 0.96, and prednisone use 70% to 34%. Responses were sustained at 12 and 18 months. “These data confirm the efficacy of Humira in a New Zealand cohort of RA patients with relatively severe and longstanding RA, but raise concerns about equality of access and risk of severe infection”, conclude the researchers.
