Antimetabolites in the treatment of arthritis: current status of the use of antimetabolites

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by a chronic inflammation of the synovial joints and infiltration of blood-derived cells. In daily practice rheumatologists use the antimetabolites methotrexate (MTX) and leflunomide for the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The current clinical status (efficacy/toxicity) of these 2 antimetabolites in the treatment of RA will be discussed.