Cancer Drug May Treat Arthritis

Researchers have found a drug used to battle cancer could help ease the pain in the millions of people suffering with rheumatoid arthritis.

Researchers are testing the drug Rituximab, which is used to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in patients with rheumatoid arthritis -- the disabling disease that causes inflammation of joints and bone erosion.

Scientists believe the drug works in arthritis by targeting cells which make antibodies that trigger the disease process.

A recent study of more than 120 patients found two injections of Rituximab led to a temporary remission that lasted up to three years in some patients.

Some patients had a feverish reaction after the injection of the drug, but the side effects were few according to researchers.

Researchers are now conducting more studies to confirm the safety of the drug.

According to researchers, another benefit of the cancer therapy is the injection doesn't have to be given as often as current treatments for rheumatoid arthritis. The drug is also cheaper.

Researchers say it will probably take another two to three years of testing before Rituximab could hit the market.

The study was conducted at the University College London and was presented at the American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific Meeting in New Orleans.

Additional Information

American College of Rheumatology