New arthritis medication is now seen by many who suffer from this debilitating disease as their practical treatment option. Presently, there are about 100 kinds of medications being used in the management and treatment of arthritis and related conditions.
The response, potential side effects and adverse reactions to these medications vary with the individual patient. It is essential for arthritis patient to understand their medical options. They should also have the ability to discuss these with their doctors and make informed decisions.
Whatever the type of arthritis, our management and treatment regimen should focus on the following:
* Reduce pain and inflammation
* Retard progression of disease
* Undertake patient education
* Minimize therapy risks
* Avoid work disability
* Improve quality of life and functional independence
There are similar goals in the treatment programs using new arthritis medication, but different approaches may be used depending on the diagnosis. The effective management and treatment include:
* Conventional medication
* Alternative medication and treatment
* Healthy diet and food
* Sufficient rest and exercise
* Healthy lifestyle
When you are considering new arthritis medication, decision should be based on the diagnosis, severity and response to previous therapies.
Upcoming and New Arthritis Medication
Biologics Medications - This medication is a result of the complex interplay among the lymphocytes, the macrophages, and the messenger signals they communicate with, the cytokines. The mechanism of this type of medication involves a laser-like work up of the immune system. It aims to arrest the progression of tissue damage as a result of this autoimmune disease.
Botanical Medical Food - It is an FDA-approved prescription medication derived from the bark and root extracts of two botanicals. It belongs to a class of substances called flavonoids. It works by inhibiting the enzyme that causes inflammation. The most promising aspect of this medication is that it does not have the side effects seen in other NSAIDs.
Tocilizumab - This new drug is the first humanized interleukin-6 receptor-inhibiting monoclonal antibody to treat rheumatoid arthritis. This is the first drug that is able to inhibit the interleukin-6 receptor, thereby blocking interleukin-6. Its direct effect is on the immune and inflammatory responses of patients.
Synvisc - This medication is an injectable substance made from rooster cartilage cells. It is marketed as a 'motor oil' or lube to the joint. Doctors usually administer a series of 3 to 5 injections. It acts as a shock absorber and lubrication. This medication is well tolerated and easy to administer. It also helps delay surgery for those with severe case of arthritis.
DMARD Treatment - Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are anti-inflammatory drugs for RA that is used to help relieve pain and inflammation. It also helps slow the progression of the disease. There are three new arthritis drugs under this category that are showing a lot of promise. These are etanercept, infliximab, and leflunomide. These are new generation drugs developed as a result of conclusive studies on the patophysiologic and cellular nature of RA. These medications attack the mechanisms of the disease rather than simply suppressing the symptoms.
When considering new arthritis medications, it essential that you discuss this thoroughly with your doctor. There are several factors that must go into the equation for a good treatment option using new arthritis medication.
No comments:
Post a Comment