Discover effective strategies and medications for managing rheumatoid arthritis. This comprehensive guide covers therapies, surgical options, and drugs that help control symptoms and slow disease progression. Proper management significantly improves quality of life, emphasizing the importance of professional consultation and personalized care.

Effective Methods and Medications for Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis

Approaches and Drugs for Controlling Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term autoimmune condition characterized by joint swelling, stiffness, and pain, predominantly affecting the hands and feet at the outset. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation in multiple organs. Although a cure remains elusive, various treatments aim to minimize joint damage, relieve symptoms, and slow disease progression. Successful management integrates medical therapies, lifestyle changes, and supportive therapies.

Physical Therapy
Customized exercises under professional guidance help maintain joint flexibility and strength. Therapists develop specific routines to encourage movement while reducing discomfort.

Occupational Therapy
This therapy supports patients in performing daily tasks such as dressing, cooking, and bathing with greater ease. Professionals recommend adaptive devices to decrease pain and enhance independence.

Surgical Options
When other treatments aren’t effective, surgery might be needed to repair or replace damaged joints, correct deformities, and ease pain.

Medications Used in Rheumatoid Arthritis

H.P. Acthar®
Also called corticotropin, this hormone manages symptoms but does not cure rheumatoid arthritis.

CUPRIMINE®
Reserved for severe cases unresponsive to other drugs; not suitable for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis due to its potency.

REMICADE®
Infliximab targets specific immune pathways to reduce inflammation, often prescribed when other treatments fail.

HUMIRA®
Adalimumab blocks tumor necrosis factor to decrease inflammation but may increase infection risk.

Enbrel®
Etanercept inhibits tumor necrosis factor, used for rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis in children over 4 years old.

SIMPONI®
Golimumab, sometimes combined with methotrexate, suppresses inflammatory substances but can affect immune defenses.

While natural remedies may help, consultation with healthcare professionals is crucial for personalized care. Proper management can significantly enhance quality of life, even without a permanent cure. Always seek medical guidance before altering treatments.