The safety of biologic agents in early rheumatoid arthritis.

Accompanying the excitement surrounding the prominent efficacy of biologic agents in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been concern regarding potential adverse effects. Data from clinical trials and pharmacovigilance has provided an assessment of their safety in patients with established RA. As biologic agents are utilized in patients with earlier disease, optimal determination of the risk/benefit will depend on continued careful monitoring, collection, reporting and analysis of safety information.