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Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Trials

Find recruiting clinical trials for RA in the UK � from early-stage DMARDs to advanced biologic and targeted therapies. See where trials fit into your treatment pathway.

Free to use � Live data from ClinicalTrials.gov � Updated daily

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RA Treatment Pathway

See where clinical trials fit into your treatment journey

1st Line: Conventional DMARDs

Initial treatment after RA diagnosis � typically methotrexate-based

Standard: Methotrexate, Hydroxychloroquine, Sulfasalazine, or Leflunomide

2nd Line: Biologic DMARDs

When conventional DMARDs fail to achieve remission or low disease activity

Standard: TNF inhibitors (Adalimumab, Etanercept), Abatacept, Rituximab, or Tocilizumab

3rd Line: Targeted / JAK Inhibitors

After biologic failure or intolerance � oral targeted therapies

Standard: Tofacitinib, Baricitinib, Upadacitinib, or Filgotinib

Refractory RA

Persistent disease activity despite multiple therapies � trials are especially important

Standard: Clinical trial, combination biologic strategies, or novel mechanisms

About RA

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

An autoimmune condition causing chronic joint inflammation. Affects about 400,000 people in the UK. Can cause joint damage, pain, fatigue, and reduced mobility if not treated early and aggressively.

Why Trials Matter

Despite many approved treatments, up to 30% of RA patients don't respond adequately. New therapies targeting different pathways (B cells, T cells, JAK-STAT, IL-6) are constantly being studied.

Treat-to-Target

Modern RA care aims for remission or low disease activity. If your current treatment isn't achieving this, a clinical trial may offer access to next-generation therapies before they're widely available.

Search RA Trials

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Frequently Asked Questions

Novel approaches include JAK inhibitors (newer generations), selective JAK1 inhibitors, biologic agents targeting new pathways (anti-TL1A), and biosimilar versions of established biologics increasing treatment options.

Many RA trials allow concurrent Methotrexate as background therapy. Some specifically test adding a new drug to Methotrexate. Check individual trial criteria for background medication requirements.

Biosimilars are highly similar versions of biologic drugs (like biosimilar Adalimumab, Rituximab). They offer the same effectiveness at lower cost. Some trials study switching from originator to biosimilar biologics.

How to Join a Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Trial

1

Search

Use our search above to find trials that match your condition and location. Review the eligibility criteria carefully.

2

Discuss

Talk to your GP or specialist about any trials you are interested in. They can help determine if a trial is appropriate for you.

3

Contact

Reach out to the trial team directly using the contact information on the ClinicalTrials.gov listing. They will guide you through screening.

4

Enrol

If you meet the criteria and decide to participate, you will go through informed consent and begin the trial process.

Related Comparisons

🗺️ Related Pathway: Autoimmune & Inflammatory Pathway · Musculoskeletal & Pain Pathway