How Arthritis Medications Work

Arthritis medications aim to alleviate symptoms and slow disease progression. The gold standard for treating arthritis is Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). These medications modify the underlying disease process, reducing inflammation and preventing joint damage.

• Gold Standard: DMARDs

• Modify the disease process, reducing inflammation and preventing joint damage

• Examples include methotrexate, leflunomide, and sulfasalazine

Alternatives to DMARDs

When DMARDs are not effective or suitable, alternative medications can be used. These include:

• Biologics

• TARGET specific molecules involved in inflammation and joint damage

• Examples include etanercept, adalimumab, and infliximab

• Corticosteroids

• Reduce inflammation and swelling in the short term

• Examples include prednisone and methylprednisolone

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

• Relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the short term

• Examples include ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac