Exploring The Many Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Options

When the inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis calls for adequate treatment, there are many different options to consider. Since there is no known cure for this joint-affecting condition, patients must turn towards medication and other remedies in order to increase joint function and avoid further damage or deformity. Below you will find a brief description regarding an array of rheumatoid arthritis treatment options:

First-Line Drugs

There are two main classes of medication used to treat rheumatoid arthritis: first-line and second-line drugs. First-line drugs are quick to respond to symptoms of the disease and include aspirin and cortisone because they are used to swiftly reduce inflammation and pain. Many patients wish to avoid the use of steroids during their treatment, meaning products like Naptosyn, Advil, Motrin, Medipren, and Lodine should be selected. It is also common to try an assortment of drugs before finding the one or ones that work the best. A doctor's goal is to pinpoint the first-line drug that creates the least amount of side effects.

Corticosteroid Medications

A stronger first-line drug given to rheumatoid arthritis patients includes oral or injected corticosteroids. Although the chances of enhanced joint mobility and function is often achieved, there are serious side effects that may also occur. High doses of these drugs for a long period of time increases the likelihood that issues may arise, such as muscle wasting, facial puffiness, and weight gain.

Second-Line Drugs

This approach towards rheumatoid arthritis treatment is slower to take action, including options, such as gold, methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil). These selections are used to combat progressive joint damage, and encourage remission of the disease. They do not act as an anti-inflammatory. When it comes to choosing one of the most aggressive out of the second-line drug options, methotrexate is often prescribed. Additional second-line drug selections include the oral approach (Azulfidine), and injections (Solganal and Myochrysine).

Immunosuppressive Drugs

Immunosuppressive drugs are rather powerful in treating rheumatoid arthritis, but are often saved as a last resort or when the disease has taken an aggressive turn for the worst. Some of the products offering this effective medication choice include Rheumatrex, Trexall, Imuran, Cytoxan, Leukeran, and Sandimmune.

Surgery

When a patient suffers from an intense joint deformity, surgery might be the best choice to consider. Restoring joint mobility, as well as mending damaged joints are some of gains associated with this sort of procedure. An orthopedic surgeon may perform an arthroscopy or completely replace a joint, such as a knee or hip, which means damaged tissue is replaced with metal.

When an individual assesses the best course of action for their rheumatoid arthritis treatment, there are many factors to think about. Age, overall health, daily level of activity, affected joints, and disease progression are just some of the things that influence treatments choices. Overall, most patients respond the best to medical management when combining medications; specific joint exercises; rest; protective gear; as well as learning the ins and outs of the disease.