The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently made significant strides in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) with the approval of several new drugs. One such medication is Tofacitinib (tocilizumab-bavi), developed by Biogen. This drug, a biosimilar alternative to the U.S.-licensed Actemra (tocilizumab), functions as an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist, aiding in immune system suppression.
Another noteworthy development in RA treatment is the introduction of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. These innovative medications, available in pill form, work by inhibiting specific enzymes in the immune system that contribute to inflammation. The FDA has approved several JAK inhibitors, including brand names like Rinvoq, Olumiant, and Xeljanz, which can be used alone or in combination with other RA medications for an enhanced effect.
Biologics represent a groundbreaking class of drugs in RA management, thanks to advances in genetics research. In the past two decades, biologics like Cimzia, Enbrel, Humira, Kineret, and Orencia have revolutionized RA treatment, moving beyond the earlier disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) which were synthetically manufactured.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlighted the effectiveness of Olokizumab in treating RA patients. This study, a phase III clinical trial, demonstrated Olokizumab’s superiority over a placebo and its comparability to the standard RA treatment, adalimumab (the generic name for Humira).
For those with moderate to severe RA, particularly those who have not responded well to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor medications, Baricitinib (Olumiant) offers a new option. Approved by the FDA, this once-daily oral medication is a targeted DMARD that blocks Janus kinase (JAK), providing another avenue for RA treatment.
Over-the-counter Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, among others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve) remain a staple in RA management. Prescription-strength NSAIDs are also available, though they may come with side effects such as stomach irritation, heart problems, and kidney damage. Corticosteroid medications like prednisone are another option, known for their ability to reduce inflammation and pain while slowing joint damage.
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