Spondyloarthropathies

John Flynn, M.D.

Abstract #1116: Efficacy of Lower Dose Infliximab in Active Ankylosing Spondylitis: Interim Results of a Canadian Study

Authors: Inman, et. al.

Purpose: Infliximab is typically dosed at 5mg/kg.  This study looked at the efficacy of lower dose (3mg/kg) Infliximab versus placebo in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. 

Methods: Patients received either Infliximab 3 mg/kg or placebo at weeks zero, 2, and 6, and then every eight weeks. 

Results: 80 subjects (40 placebo, 40 Infliximab) were enrolled.  Patients were evaluated at baseline and at week 12 looking at the BASDAI, BASFI, and BASGI as outcome measures.  A mean change in all of these outcomes was found to be significant in the Infliximab group, but not in the placebo group.

Conclusion: Infliximab at lower dose was effective in reducing disease activity in patients with ankylosing spondylitis compared to placebo.

Comment: While this study shows efficacy of low-dose Infliximab, there is not a head-to-head comparison with higher doses.  Additionally, there will need to be longer term outcomes measured in this group.  This does allow consideration for a cost-saving strategy in the use of this medication.