In Base Study Phase IIa, participants were to receive blinded MK-8457 100 mg or matched placebo for up to 24 weeks. At Week 12 and 18 of Phase IIa, efficacy evaluation was conducted to assess eligibility for early escape, defined as <20% reduction in both tender and swollen joint counts. The study plan included Base Study Phase IIb in which dose range finding or dose-response was to be evaluated, depending on the outcome of Phase IIa. Participants who completed Phase IIa or Phase IIb and those eligible for early escape could enroll in Period 3, a 2-year Safety Extension.