Changes in the Use of Opioids, Antidepressants, and Benzodiazepines in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Treated With Biologic Agents

Changes in the Use of Opioids, Antidepressants, and Benzodiazepines in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Treated With Biologic Agents

To compare the proportion of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients prescribed opioids, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants before versus after starting each of the following biologics: abatacept, infliximab, etanercept, adalimumab, utilizing an administrative claims database.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ICD 9 diagnosis RA 714.0
• Documented first biologic prescription ("index" prescription) for abatacept, infliximab, etanercept, or adalimumab
• Continuous therapy (gap between scripts no greater than 150% days supply) for minimum 6 months from index
• Prescription claims data available for 6 months before and 12 months after index biologic prescription
• Continuous eligibility for 6 months before and 12 months after index biologic prescription

Exclusion Criteria:

• Prescription claims for another biologic during the observation period (including rituximab and anakinra)
• Prescriptions not continuous for at least 6 months