Key randomized trials of single agents in early rheumatoid arthritis.

Disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD) for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are well established. As evidence has shown, considerable damage to the joints occurs early in the disease: thus DMARD therapy is being initiated earlier. Clinical trials with DMARD monotherapy in early RA are reviewed with consideration given to efficacy, onset of therapeutic effect, and the toxicity profile of currently available drugs.