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I've heard there's a new drug called abatacept for rheumatoid arthritis. Who's it for?

New biologic agents are being developed for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The first batch of biologic agents called first generation therapy have worked very well. The new or second generation drugs include tocilizumab, abatacept, and rituximab.

Abatacept is a genetically engineered drug that was recently approved by the FDA. Abatacept interferes with the direct cellular interaction that occurs in RA. Signals needed to activate the immune system's T-cells are interrupted.

It is recommended for patients who have tried disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) without success. Abatacept is not available in pill or tablet form. It is given in monthly 30-minute intravenous infusions.

Studies done so far with this drug have shown improved symptoms and quality of life for patients with RA. X-rays also showed improved joints with fewer erosions and greater joint space. Results weren't so good when abatacept was used with other biologic agents. Patients had more serious side effects from the drugs when combined together.

If you are an RA sufferer, ask your doctor if you qualify for any of the new drug therapies. If you aren't getting enough relief from your symptoms with the current drugs, you may be a good candidate to try something else like abatacept.

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