Understanding DMARDs: Key Treatments for Rheumatoid, Psoriatic, and Ankylosing Spondylitis Arthritis
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Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are a powerful tool in the treatment of inflammatory arthritis conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis , psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. These medications empower patients by playing a crucial role in managing symptoms, preventing joint damage, and improving quality of life. What are DMARDs? DMARDs are a class of medications designed to slow down the progression of rheumatic diseases, which are conditions that cause chronic inflammation in the joints, muscles, or other tissues. Unlike nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids, which only manage symptoms, DMARDs target the underlying disease process. They work by modifying the immune system response, which is the body's way of reacting to injury or infection, that causes inflammation and joint damage. What are the 2 types of DMARDs? DMARDs can be classified into two main categories: Traditional DMARDs: These include methotrexate, sulfasalazine, ...