SER recommendations on the use of biological drugs in primary Sjögren's syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To formulate SER recommendations for the use of biological agents in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS).

METHODS: Relevant clinical research questions were identified on the use of biological agents in pSS. The clinical questions were reformulated into 4PICO questions. A search strategy was designed and a review of the scientific evidence of studies published until May 2017 was carried out. The scientific evidence available was systematically reviewed. The overall level of scientific evidence was assessed using the SIGN evidence levels. After that, specific recommendations were made.

RESULTS: Rituximab is recommended as the biological agent of choice for extraglandular manifestations refractory to conventional treatment. The use of anti-TNF agents is discouraged. The scientific evidence with belimumab and abatacept is scarce, so they should be considered only in cases refractory to rituximab.

CONCLUSIONS: Rituximab is the biological agent of choice in severe extraglandular manifestations of pSS. Belimumab or abatacept may be useful in selected cases.