Cyclosporin and sulfasalazine combination in the treatment of early rheumatoid arthritis

The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of a new formulation of cyc losporin-A (CyA) and sulfasalazine (SASP) combination treatment in preventi ng disability and reducing inflammatory disease activity in patients with e arly rheumatoid arthritis, as well as to assess the tolerability, safety, a nd suitability for long-term treatment. Forty five patients with early, active rheumatoid arthritis, (RA) were trea ted with CyA and SASP combination therapy for 12 months. The patients were evaluated by disease activity and radiologic measurements. The combined CyA and SASP therapy seems to be effective. Disease activity p arameters improved within 3 months. The individual treatment response rate according to EULAR response criteria was 78% after a one year treatment per iod. Five patients were withdrawn due to gastrointestinal side effect and t wo patients because of lack of efficacy. CYA and SASP combination treatment seems to be effective in early severe RA, and with careful monitoring, sid e effects can be kept under control.