Tablets instead of injections for arthritis sufferers

Arthritis sufferers could find themselves taking treatment drugs in tablet form instead of having an injection or an intravenous drip by the end of next year.

Apollo Life Sciences has announced that its new technique for delivering arthritis drugs in tablet form is running animal trials and aims to begin clinical human trials in 2007.

Drugs for rheumatoid arthritis, known as TNF blockers, are usually injected or given via intravenous drip – which is very inconvenient for patients and can take up to two hours. TNF blockers are regarded as among the best treatments for arthritis, relieving its symptoms and slowing the speed of joint damage.

Apollo has developed its own TNF blocker for delivery in tablet form. It has already proven effective at reducing inflammation in animal trials when injected or rubbed on the skin.

The early indications show great promise of real benefits for arthritis sufferers. Pre-clinical results suggest that the TNF blocker has advantages over existing products and less likely to cause immune reactions.