Safety of biologic agents in elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Objective. To clarify the safety of biologics in elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods. Biologics were analyzed for safety in relation to age in 309 patients. Results. Young (< 65 yrs old, n = 174), elderly (65-74 yrs old, n = 86), and older elderly patients (? 75 yrs old, n = 49) were enrolled. Although the incidence of adverse events causing treatment withdrawal was significantly higher in elderly and old elderly compared with young patients, no difference was found between elderly and older elderly patients. Pulmonary complications were independent risk factors. Conclusion. Old patients require special attention, although the safety of biologics in those ? 75 years old and 65-74 was comparable.