Types of Drugs Used to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
People of any age, but especially those between in their 40s, 50s and 60s, can develop rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is an inflammatory joint disease that causes damage to the lining inside your joints. Pain and swelling results, making it difficult for some people to go about their daily activities. There are several classes of drugs used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, as explained in detail by the Mayo Clinic (see Resources).
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NSAIDs
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NSAIDs, or non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, are used to both relieve the pain and reduce the swelling that RA sufferers experience. Ibuprofen and naproxen are NSAIDs that are available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths.
Immunosuppressants
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Doctors use immunosuppressant medications such as cyclosporine and leflunomide to calm down an RA patient's immune system, which is part of the problem in the case of rheumatoid arthritis. The medications may also be able to destroy some of the cells that produce RA symptoms.
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Steroids
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Steroidal medications, called corticosteroids, help reduce the inflammation of RA. Prednisone is often used for pain control and to slow down the speed at which joints become damaged. Steroids are usually used on a short-term basis.
TNF Inhibitors
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A class of drugs called TNF inhibitors also act as anti-inflammatory agents by blocking a type of protein from being produced in the body. Remicade and Humira are two examples of TNF inhibitors that are given to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
Anti-Rheumatic Medications
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Preventing further joint damage is a goal of RA treatment and is achieved with the use of DMARDs, or disease modifying anti-rheumatic medications. Methotrexate, minocylcine and sulfasalazine are medications in this group.
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