Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. While there’s no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, a variety of medications are available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) can alleviate pain. However, these drugs may have side effects such as stomach irritation, heart problems, and kidney damage. Prescription-strength NSAIDs are also available for more severe pain.
Corticosteroids, like prednisone, are another class of medications that reduce inflammation and pain, and they can slow joint damage. Yet, these too come with potential side effects, including but not limited to, changes in blood sugar levels and bone density.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are critical in the treatment of RA as they can slow or stop the immune system processes that trigger inflammation. Some commonly prescribed DMARDs include methotrexate, sulfasalazine, leflunomide (Arava), and the biologics like etanercept (Enbrel), infliximab (Remicade), and adalimumab (Humira). Other medications in this category are certolizumab pegol (Cimzia), golimumab (Simponi), abatacept (Orencia), rituximab (Rituxan), tocilizumab (Actemra), anakinra (Kineret), and antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil).
Goals of RA treatment are to stop inflammation, manage symptoms, reduce pain, and achieve long periods of remission. Due to the potential for serious side effects, doctors often prescribe the lowest effective dose of RA medications and monitor patients closely. Other classes of drugs for RA include immunosuppressants and JAK inhibitors, with each medication tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
For further reading on this topic, please visit the Mayo Clinic, WebMD, Healthgrades, RheumatoidArthritis.org, Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, Healthline, RheumatoidArthritis.org Treatment Overview, and Medical News Today.
Choosing the right medication for rheumatoid arthritis pain involves careful consideration of the benefits and risks, often requiring a personalized approach by the healthcare provider.
