Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that not only affects the joints but can also impact a variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. The treatment approach for RA has evolved over the years, with a range of medications now available to manage its symptoms.
Medications are a cornerstone of RA treatment, and the type recommended by your doctor depends on the severity of your symptoms and the duration of your condition. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, etc.) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), are commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Many people with RA benefit from disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), with methotrexate being a frequently prescribed option. However, in cases where methotrexate alone is insufficient, additional medications may be necessary. Studies have shown that triple therapy, combining methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), or leflunomide (Arava), can be effective. Other options include Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors such as etanercept (Enbrel), adalimumab (Humira), and infliximab (Remicade); T-cell Costimulatory Blocking Agents like abatacept (Orencia); and B cell Depleting Agents such as rituximab (Rituxan).
Recently, JAK inhibitors, a new class of treatment, have gained FDA approval for RA. These medications, which come in pill form, work by preventing the immune system from producing enzymes that stimulate inflammation. They can be used alone or in combination with other RA medicines.
Despite the effectiveness of these treatments, the use of corticosteroids is being reconsidered. The latest guidelines strongly recommend against long-term steroid use and conditionally advise against short-term use, due to potential side effects.
For a more comprehensive understanding of rheumatoid arthritis and its treatments, visit Verywell Health, Mayo Clinic, Healthline, AAFP, Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, Arthritis Foundation, and Medical News Today for detailed information.
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