RALiving - Different ways to treat RA

Different ways to treat RA

Many different types of medicine are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Some lessen pain and reduce inflammation. Others may also work to slow or inhibit the progression of joint damage. Healthcare professionals often prescribe combination therapy, which uses one or more types of medicine to help you get better results.

Common Categories of Medicine Used to Treat RA


Category		Benefits
Analgesics		Relieve pain
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)		Reduce inflammation Relieve pain
Steroids		Reduce inflammation
Non-biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)		Reduce signs and symptoms Slow or inhibit the progression of joint damage
Biologic response modifiers (BRMs or biologic DMARDs)		Reduce signs and symptoms Slow or inhibit the progression of joint damage

It is important to talk to your healthcare professional about your current medications. Be sure to include over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Our free Quality of Life Monitor can help you and your healthcare professional have an informed discussion. You can talk about how you are feeling right now and explore your treatment options to see if there is anything else you can do to help manage your RA.

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Different ways to treat RA