AZD9056 + methotrexate

AZD9056 + methotrexate is an investigational oral drug combination evaluated primarily for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). AZD9056 is a **selective, orally active small molecule antagonist** of the **P2X7 purinergic receptor**, implicated in proinflammatory cytokine signaling (particularly IL-1β and IL-18) and various immune responses. Methotrexate is an established antimetabolite and antifolate agent used as a cornerstone disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD), primarily in the management of RA and some other inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The combination was investigated to determine whether AZD9056 could improve RA outcomes in patients not controlled on methotrexate alone. Clinical studies found **no significant efficacy of AZD9056, either alone or in combination with methotrexate, in improving RA symptoms**. The development of AZD9056 for RA has been discontinued.