Clinical experience with tumor necrosis factor blockers in Korean rheumatoid arthritis patients

Abstract

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have become an important treatment in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with its proven effectiveness. But it is not universally effective in all patients and it comes with a relatively high economic burden. We should use them effectively. Advances in pharmacoeconomics and pharmacogenetics may be able to help us reach this goal. This article will review our clinical experience of biological agents to treat RA at Hanyang University in Korea, with emphasis on the current therapies targeting TNF and the rational use of theses agents in RA.