Abstract | OBJECTIVE: DATA SOURCES: DATA SYNTHESIS: RA is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by symmetrical joint involvement, usually of the small joints of the hands and feet. Although the hallmark of the disease is inflammation of joints, other organ systems--including the eyes, blood vessels, lungs, and cardiopulmonary system--may also be involved. Treatment of RA requires both drug and non- drug approaches. Current drug therapy consists of combinations of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Corticosteroids are also used either for short-term treatment during initiation of therapy, in bursts during acute disease flares, or chronically in low doses. A number of promising new agents are in development. NSAIDs with preferential inhibition of cyclooxygenase II may offer a better safety profile than existing agents. Leflunomide and biological agents such as etanercept may provide benefit for patients who fail to achieve adequate response from conventional therapy. CONCLUSION: Traditional approaches to treatment of RA include NSAIDs combined with DMARDs. New agents just reaching the market represent important advances and have the potential to make a positive impact on treatment of RA.
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Authors | A A Schuna |
Journal | Journal of the American Pharmaceutical Association (Washington, D.C. : 1996)
(J Am Pharm Assoc (Wash))
1998 Nov-Dec
Vol. 38
Issue 6
Pg. 728-35; quiz 735-7
ISSN: 1086-5802 [Print] United States |
PMID | 9861791
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
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Chemical References |
- Adrenal Cortex Hormones
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
- Antirheumatic Agents
- Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors
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Topics |
- Adrenal Cortex Hormones
(therapeutic use)
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
(therapeutic use)
- Antirheumatic Agents
(therapeutic use)
- Arthritis, Rheumatoid
(diagnosis, drug therapy)
- Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors
(therapeutic use)
- Drug Monitoring
- Female
- Humans
- Lactation
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Complications
(drug therapy)
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