The discontinuation of biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) is possible without clinical flare and functional impairment for early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with low disease activity or remission.

For patients with established RA, “deep remission” at the time of discontinuation is required to maintain the treatment holiday from bDMARDs.

“Treatment holiday” from bDMARDS following early intensive treatment may be beneficial for reduction of drug-induced adverse effects and costs.