METHOTREXATE THERAPY IN RHEUMATOID-ARTHRITIS - A LIFE TABLE REVIEW OF587 PATIENTS TREATED IN COMMUNITY PRACTICE

To determine whether methotrexate (MTX) maintains its effectiveness in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the setting of community based private r heumatology practice we used life table analysis to review the combine d experience of a group of these practices. Of 587 patients with RA wh o started to take MTX, total termination rate at 70 months was 24.4% w ith most terminations prompted by drug toxicity. Older age (greater th an 65 years) was associated with higher rates of toxicity. Treatment t ermination rates varied substantially between rheumatologists. We conc lude that MTX therapy for RA is well tolerated and maintains effective ness for at least 70 months.