PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Kathleen M.  Andersen
AU  - Ayano Kelly
AU  - Anne Lyddiatt
AU  - Clifton O.  Bingham III
AU  - Vivian P.  Bykerk
AU  - Adena Batterman
AU  - Joan Westreich
AU  - Michelle K.  Jones
AU  - Marita Cross
AU  - Peter M.  Brooks
AU  - Lyn March
AU  - Beverley Shea
AU  - Peter Tugwell
AU  - Lee S.  Simon
AU  - Robin Christensen
AU  - Susan J.  Bartlett
TI  - Patient Perspectives on DMARD Safety Concerns in Rheumatology Trials: Results from Inflammatory Arthritis Patient Focus Groups and OMERACT Attendees Discussion
AID  - 10.3899/jrheum.181185
DP  - 2019 Feb 15
TA  - The Journal of Rheumatology
PG  - jrheum.181185
4099  - http://www.jrheum.org/content/early/2019/04/09/jrheum.181185.short
4100  - http://www.jrheum.org/content/early/2019/04/09/jrheum.181185.full
AB  - Objective The Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) Safety Working Group is identifying core safety domains that matter most to patients with rheumatic disease. Methods International focus groups were held with 39 patients with inflammatory arthritis to identify disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) experiences and concerns. Themes were identified by pragmatic thematic coding and discussed in small groups by meeting attendees. Results Patients view DMARD side effects as a continuum and consider the cumulative effect on day-to-day function. Disease and drug experiences, personal factors, and life circumstances influence tolerance of side effects and treatment persistence. Conclusion Patients weigh overall adverse effects and benefits over time in relation to experiences and life circumstances.