Can early TNF blockers stop arthritis drugs for good?

NCT ID NCT04435288

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This phase 3 trial tests whether starting a strong TNF inhibitor (golimumab) early in peripheral spondyloarthritis can help patients reach drug-free remission, compared to the usual step-up approach with milder drugs. 90 adults with recent-onset disease will be randomly assigned to one of two strategies. The goal is to see if early, temporary treatment can reset the immune system and allow patients to stop all medications.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

golimumab (a TNF inhibitor)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that early, temporary use of a TNF inhibitor can lead to drug-free remission in some patients with peripheral spondyloarthritis.

What could go wrong

This is a relatively small phase 3 trial (90 participants) and remission may not be sustained long-term. The treatment also carries risks like increased infection and allergic reactions.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

spondyloarthropathy

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • ASZ Aalst

    Aalst, 9300, Belgium

  • AZ Maria Middelares

    Ghent, 9000, Belgium

  • AZ Sint-Jan

    Bruges, 8000, Belgium

  • UZ Ghent

    Ghent, 9000, Belgium

  • UZ Leuven Gasthuisberg

    Leuven, 3000, Belgium

  • ZNA Jan Palfijn

    Merksem, 2170, Belgium