New Interleukin-1 inhibitor clinical trial

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New Interleukin-1 inhibitor

The Immunex company is currently investigating a genetically engineered

medication that works against arthritis by inhibiting the action of a

molecule called interleukin-1. As a genetically engineered medication, this

medication is given as a shot (under the skin, similar to an insulin shot)

by the patient, spouse or other designated person. Studies done so far

suggest that inhibitors of IL-1 help prevent joint damage and reduce the

pain and stiffness of rheumatoid arthritis. The Midwest Arthritis Center is

currently enrolling patients with rheumatoid arthritis into a study using

this medication to evaluate its effectiveness and safety when used in

combination with Enbrel. Patients must currently be taking Enbrel (and have

done so for at least 12 weeks). Participants will be permitted to take their

usual arthritis pills [including  NSAIDs, prednisone (10 mg or less) and

pain pills]. Participants may be eligible for a payment of up to $510.

If you would like to be considered as a participant and fit the profile

listed below, please call: 616-344-5552.

If you:

€ Are at least 18 years of age and not older than 75 years.

€ Have rheumatoid arthritis

€ Are female, you must be practicing birth control or be incapable of

becoming pregnant

€ Are not confined to a wheelchair

€ Have not taken Methotrexate, Plaquenil, Azulfidine, Gold, Minocycline,

Arava, Remicade or Kineret within the past 4 to 8 weeks.

€ Do not have another medical condition that would make participation in a

clinical study hazardous.

€ Do not have other serious disease that would make participation in a

clinical trial dangerous

€ Have not had recurrent infections

Call: 616-344-5552 for more information

http://www.midwestarthritis.com/html/ra_general.htm