International consensus recommendations on cyclosporin use in rheumatoid arthritis.

Guidelines for the use of cyclosporin in patients with rheumatoid arthritis have been formulated as a result of 2 International Consensus meetings. Clinical experience since the last meeting in June 1994 indicates that the clear and simple recommended guidelines remain valid. Experience in early identification of patients with a poor prognosis is growing, and trials currently underway will provide further evidence regarding the use of cyclosporin earlier in the course of severe disease. Confirmation of the potential benefits of the microemulsion-based formulation of cyclosporin (Neoral) relative to the conventional formulation (Sandimmun) will further strengthen the position of the drug in the management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.