NORTH STAR
The Nordic study of strategy tests and registries for rheumatic diseases
Project managers
ABOUT THE PROJECT
NORD-STAR is a multi-centre randomized controlled trial which is carried out in all Nordic countries as well as the Netherlands. A total of 812 patients with newly diagnosed arthritis are included.
WHO CAN JOIN?
Inclusion of patients in the NORD-STAR study has been completed and all patients have completed the first part. At present, long-term follow-up of the patients takes place with 5- and 10-year visits.
WHAT DOES THE STUDY INCLUDE?
The study compares the effect of conventional first-line treatment (methotrexate and prednisolone) with the effect of methotrexate combined with one of three different biological drugs in early RA. The three biological drugs are (certolizumab pegol (TNF inhibitor), abatacept (T-cell modulator) and tocilizumab (IL6 inhibitor). In addition, two different tapering strategies are compared in those who have a good response to the treatment. NORD-STAR is the largest trial-initiated randomized study in newly diagnosed arthritis.