To analyze clinical variables and direct costs of a sample of patients with rheumatoid arthritis from a specialized pharmacotherapeutic management center in Medellin, Colombia. We reviewed 408 clinical files of the period 2007-2009 collecting clinical information and direct costs from the perspective of a local private health insurer. 337 women (82.6%), average age 49.8 (range 4-91). Almost one half of the patients (183, 44.8%) in this sample received biological therapy during this period. Overall, average monthly cost increased from Col$1.31 million (around US$650) in 2007, to Col$1.71 million (∼US$850) in 2008, and Col$1.99 million (∼US$1000) in 2009; 87.9% of this cost is represented by pharmaceuticals. Costs of treatment are increasing, despite the implementation of cost-containing strategies; pharmaceuticals represent an important proportion of total cost.