Safety and Efficacy Study of Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Background: Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) are integral to managing Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), yet their long-term safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness remain under-explored in the Indian population. Objective: To evaluate the safety, efficacy, prescription patterns, medication adherence, quality of life, and costeffectiveness of biological and non-biological DMARDs in RA patients. Methods: This is a prospective, retrospective, open-labeled observational study conducted at two clinical sites in Gujarat, India. A total of 450 RA patients aged 18–75 years were enrolled in the study. Clinical data, lab parameters, and qualityof- life assessments were recorded. Results: Female patients predominated. Most participants were aged 40–50 years with RA duration exceeding 10 years. Hydroxychloroquine and naproxen were the most prescribed drugs. Lab results revealed elevated ESR and CRP. Conclusion: The study provides valuable insight into DMARD usage, safety, efficacy, and prescription trends among Indian RA patients, supporting a shift towards biological DMARDs with monitored cost-effectiveness and improved patient outcomes.