Effectiveness and safety of biosimilar infliximab CT-P13 in the treatment of refractory uveitis associated with Behçet's disease.

Abstract

Purpose: This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of the biosimilar infliximab CT-P13 in treating refractory uveitis associated with Behçet's disease.

Study design: Retrospective study.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of medical records from seven patients was conducted, categorizing them into two groups: those initially treated with CT-P13 (Group 1) and those switched from other tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (Group 2). Data on demographics, treatment duration, ocular inflammatory attacks, visual acuity changes, relapse rates, and adverse events were collected.

Results: Seven patients (mean age: 32.0 ± 17.7 years) with refractory uveitis associated with Behçet's disease were included. Four patients in Group 1 received CT-P13 as their first-line biologic therapy, of whom two (50%) achieved remission. All patients exhibited a significant reduction in relapses in the 6 months before and after CT-P13 treatment (Wilcoxon test, p = 0.031). Three patients in Group 2, switched from original infliximab, maintained remission for an average of 11.0 ± 2.0 months. Overall, 71.4% of patients achieved remission. No significant changes in visual acuity were observed in either group. One adverse event occurred, but no adverse drug reactions were reported.

Conclusion: The biosimilar infliximab CT-P13 appears to be an effective and cost-efficient option for managing refractory uveitis in Behçet's disease. This finding highlights its potential in managing this challenging condition and warrants further investigation in larger patient cohorts.