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Evaluating a Decision Aid for Tapering Biologic Medications in Rheumatoid Arthritis

The Problem

Rheumatoid arthritis affects each person differently. This makes treatment decisions complex as they need to be personalized. If someone is doing well on their medications, they may consider whether to safely reduce their medications. This is often challenging because these decisions are not straightforward, but tools like decision aids help people make better decisions that are aligned with their priorities.

The Research

This study will test a tool designed to help rheumatoid arthritis patients and their doctors make informed choices together about whether to reduce or stop biologic medications.

Participants currently doing well on advanced therapies, called biologic or targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, will be divided into two groups: one using the decision aid tool, and one receiving usual care. The goal is to see whether the tool helps people talk with their doctors about tapering their medications and whether it leads to better decisions about treatment.

The Impact

By supporting shared decision-making between patients and their healthcare teams, this research aims to make treatment more patient-centered. Specifically, a tool like this decision aid will help patients better understand their options, make choices aligned with their values, and foster stronger collaboration with their doctors.

Research Study

Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious condition, and symptoms vary from person to person. Deciding how to manage medications, including whether to reduce or stop medications, is often challenging. This study will test how using a tool called a decision aid supports people with rheumatoid arthritis and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about their treatment plans.

Learn More

Research Scientist

Glen Hazlewood

Research Scientist, Rheumatology, MD, PhD, FRCPC

Dr. Glen Hazlewood is a rheumatologist and clinician scientist. He completed his rheumatology training in 2010 at the University of Calgary and his PhD in clinical epidemiology through the University of Toronto in 2015. He is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine in Calgary.

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