There are now five anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) drugs licenced for use in rheumatoid
arthritis. This chapter examines the similarities and differences between the drugs and looks
for clues with regard to their rational prescribing. The major difference is between the
monoclonal antibody-based drugs and the soluble receptor etanercept. Etanercept exhibits
the best drug survival and is also associated with a lower risk of opportunistic infections,
particularly tuberculosis. Immunogenicity should explain some of the differences between …