Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Options

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disorder for which there is no known cure. Fortunately in the last few years, a shift in strategy toward the earlier institution of disease modifying drugs and the availability of new classes of medications have greatly improved the outcomes that can be expected by most patients. 

The goal of rheumatoid arthritis treatment now aims toward achieving the lowest possible level of arthritis disease activity and remission if possible, minimizing joint damage, and enhancing physical function and quality of life.

The optimal treatment of RA requires a comprehensive program that combines medical, social, and emotional support for the patient. It is essential that the patient and the patient’s family be educated about the nature and course of the disease.

Treatment options include medications, reduction of joint stress, physical and occupational therapy, and surgical intervention.

• Pharmacological Strategies
• NSAIDs
• Corticosteroids
• Methotrexate (Rheumatrex®, Trexall®)
• Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil ®)
• Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®)
• Leflunomide (Arava®)
• Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors— etanercept (Enbrel®, adalimumab (Humira ®), and infliximab (Remicade®)
• T-cell Costimulatory Blocking Agents—abatacept (Orencia®)
• B cell Depleting Agents—rituximab (Rituxan®)
• Interleukin-1 (IL-1) Receptor Antagonist Therapy—anakinra (Kineret®)
• Other Immunomodulatory and Cytotoxic agents— azathioprine (Imuran®), cyclophosphamide, and cyclosporine A(Neoral®, Sandimmune®)
• Treatment during pregnancy
• Reduction of joint stress
• Surgical approaches

Source: Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center