Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis has Changed Significantly as New Management of the Disease Emerges

January 29 2004--The treatment of RA has changed significantly as treatment shifts towards early, aggressive management of the disease. Although guidelines support early use of DMARDs, concomitant use of other drugs, such as NSAIDs, continues at significant levels. The convenience of Humira is challenging Enbrel and Remicade, and Medicare reform in the US promises to alter radically the dynamics of this sector.

The report reveals:
-An assessment of epidemiological trends and patient potential
-An analysis of RA treatment algorithms globally and by country, based on extensive primary research with 180 physicians
-Country treatment trees showing treatment practices in the seven major markets
-Transcripts of interviews with key RA opinion leaders in the US, UK, and mainland Europe

The report also highlights:
-The addition of a prescription drug benefit to Medicare will have significant effects on the RA market and treatment practices, in particular in the biologics sector. The advantage over its rivals of Remicade as an infusion product reimbursed under Medicare is set to narrow, transforming the dynamics of the biologic DMARDs sector.

- Celltech and CAT have had licenses for RA products disputed or terminated, with serious consequences for licensors and licensees. Big pharma's need to boost pipelines through licensing makes it important that companies refrain from alienating biotechs, to avoid jeopardizing opportunities to conclude much needed licensing deals with future partners.

Reasons to Purchase
- Explore changing RA treatment patterns across the seven major markets to understand differences in prescribing patterns

- Understand why Medicare reform and changes in reimbursement status are a key issue in the US RA market

In a sector heavily dependent on licensing deals, appreciate why big pharma needs to worry about alienating potential partners

For a complete index of this report click on
http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/42835

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