NCT04692493 · University of Alabama at Birmingham
RA-PRO PRAGMATIC TRIAL
(RA-PROPR)
What this study is about
The 2021 ACR RA treatment guideline, based on widely acknowledged low to moderate quality evidence, recommends switching to a non-tumor necrosis factor (TNFi) biologic (choose among existing medications, currently, rituximab, abatacept, tocilizumab, or sarilumab) or a targeted synthetic DMARD treatment group$1 (tsDMARD; choose among existing medications, currently, tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib) in patients with active RA despite the use of a TNFi-biologic. In practice, most patients receive another
View original scientific description
The 2021 ACR RA treatment guideline, based on widely acknowledged low to moderate quality evidence, recommends switching to a non-tumor necrosis factor (TNFi) biologic (choose among existing medications, currently, rituximab, abatacept, tocilizumab, or sarilumab) or a targeted synthetic DMARD arm (tsDMARD; choose among existing medications, currently, tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib) in patients with active RA despite the use of a TNFi-biologic.
Interventions
DRUG
targeted synthetic DMARD class
Switching to a targeted synthetic DMARD (choice from targeted synthetic DMARDs; currently available are tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib) in people with active RA despite current treatment
DRUG
non-TNFi-biologic class
Switching to a non-TNFi-biologic (choice from non-TNFi-biologics; currently available are rituximab, abatacept, tocilizumab, or sarilumab) in people with active RA despite current treatment,
Primary outcome measures
Functional Limitation
Time frame: Change from baseline to 12 months
Function limitation assessed by Health assessment questionnaire (HAQ); HAQ assesses difficulty in 20 items in 8 categories (dressing, arising, eating, walking, hygiene, reaching, gripping, and outside activity), the total score ranges from 0 (no disability) to 3 (complete disability). Higher score is worse, and indicates poor function.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patients with active, disabling RA (CDAI ≥10 and HAQ ≥0.5) despite the use/experience of a TNFi-biologic OR discontinued the medication(s) due to intolerability or toxicity irrespective of treatment duration prior to the first dose of study drug ; 2. If receiving glucocorticoids (≤10 mg/day of prednisone of equivalent) or NSAIDs, on stable doses for ≥2 weeks prior to randomization; and 3. Insurance plan or patient assistance program allows access to at least 1 drug in each of the two treatment strategies, TNFi-biologic vs. tsDMARD.(TNFi-biologic and tsDMARD) will be obtained through insurance plan or a patient assistance program/plan. Participants will be allowed to continue their conventional synthetic DMARD (csDMARD) therapy if they had been using it for ≥ 3 months and on a stable dose for ≥ 4 weeks prior to the first dose of study drug. The following csDMARDs are allowed: methotrexate (MTX), sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine, and leflunomide
Where
- Auburn, Alabama
- Birmingham, Alabama
- Peoria, Arizona
- Tucson, Arizona
- Los Angeles, California
- Nipomo, California
- Turlock, California
- Woodland Hills, California
- Aventura, Florida
- Clearwater, Florida
- Coral Springs, Florida
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
And 32 more locations — see the full list below.
Collaborators
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 18, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations