Rheumatoid Arthritis Relief: Medications

October 6, 2011 GuestPoster Health & Fitness

Medications are the primary options for rheumatoid arthritis relief. The types of drugs used rely on the severity of the disease, the speed of its progression, and its impact on normal daily functioning. It is common for patients suffering from the condition to have episodes of flare-ups and periods when the symptoms subside. A wide-ranging treatment strategy that takes into account lifestyle, medical history, and treatment options should be developed in collboration a medical professional.

The first line of medication to inhibit the progression of the condition is a group of drugs called DMARDs or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. These prescribed drugs can slow or sometimes prevent joint destruction and is usually recommended in the early stages of the disease condition. All people with rheumatoid arthritis are considered candidates for treatment with this drug group. Some experts also refer to this group as immunosuppressive drugs or slow-acting antirheumatic drugs (SAARDs). DMARDs are associated with a wide variety of side effects, some of which can be quite severe. Because DMARDs interfere with the immune system, most of these adverse reactions have something to do with increased vulnerability to infection.

As natural arthritis remedies for pain, medical professionals prescribe NSAIDs or Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs. These medications work by preventing the production of prostaglandins, which have been identified as the triggers for pain and inflammation. They do this by inhibiting the enzymes that play an important role in manufacturing the prostaglandins. Several types of anti-inflammatory agents exist. Many doctors recommend NSAIDs as the first type of medicine to try immediately after making a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Pharmacologic rheumatoid arthritis relief methods may include the recommendations for corticosteroids. These drugs decrease swelling and inflammation by suppressing immune response. Ideally, corticosteroids are used for only a short time in order to manage sudden flares in symptoms. Long-term use is associated with serious side effects which is why these drug are usually avoided by physicians.

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