Understanding Inflammatory Arthritis
Inflammatory arthritis is a group of diseases that primarily affect the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased function. The most common types of inflammatory arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. These conditions can lead to joint damage and disability if not properly managed.
Types of Drugs for Inflammatory Arthritis
There are several classes of drugs used to treat inflammatory arthritis, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic response modifiers, and corticosteroids. NSAIDs help relieve pain and inflammation but do not slow down the progression of the disease. DMARDs are a mainstay of treatment for inflammatory arthritis as they target the underlying disease process. Biologic response modifiers are a newer class of drugs that specifically target molecules involved in the immune response. Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory drugs that can provide quick relief but are generally used for short-term management due to side effects.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Arthritis Drugs
When selecting drugs for inflammatory arthritis, it is important to consider the type of arthritis, disease severity, potential side effects, drug interactions, and individual patient preferences. The goals of treatment should also be taken into account, such as reducing pain, inflammation, and joint damage.