A compound of formula (I)R-L-CO—X (I)(wherein R is a C10-24 unsaturated hydrocarbon group optionally interrupted by one or more heteroatoms or groups of heteroatoms selected from S, O, N, SO, SO2, said hydrocarbon group comprising at least 4 non-conjugated double bonds;L is a linking group forming a bridge of 1 to 5 atoms between the R group and the carbonyl CO; andX is an electron withdrawing group)for use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.