Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis With Tripterygium Wilfordi Hook F or Sulfasalazine

Summary

Various forms of the plant extract Tripterygium wilfordi Hook F (TwHF) have been used in China as a remedy for inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. The purpose of this study is to investigate how tolerable, safe, and effective TwHF is for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Investigators will compare the therapeutic effects of TwHF with Sulfasalazine, an FDA-approved drug for arthritis. Participants in this 24-week study must have had active rheumatoid arthritis for at least six months. Approximately 120 patients will participate. Participants will be assigned to one of two drug-treatment groups, TwHF or Sulfasalazine. They will be given the study drug at each of six clinic visits and will be asked to take two capsules three times each day with meals and water. During the clinic visits, investigators will obtain multiple blood samples; give physical exams; assess swollen, tender, and painful joints; and administer x-rays. Study participants will be compensated up to $260 for their involvement in this study.

Timeline

Start

2003-06

Primary completion

—

Completion

2006-03

Publications

• Background Tao X, Cai JJ, Lipsky PE. The identity of immunosuppressive components of the ethyl acetate extract and chloroform methanol extract (T2) of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1995 Mar;272(3):1305-12.
• Background Tao X, Cush JJ, Garret M, Lipsky PE. A phase I study of ethyl acetate extract of the chinese antirheumatic herb Tripterygium wilfordii hook F in rheumatoid arthritis. J Rheumatol. 2001 Oct;28(10):2160-7.

Drugs

Indications