What Are Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs and How Do They Work?

What Are Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs and How Do They Work?

Millions of people worldwide are living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and sometimes other organs. RA causes inflammation that results in joint damage and pain, making it difficult for people to carry out their daily activities. Over a period of time, it can lead to disability and chronic pain. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help to control the symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term damage. One such treatment is disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

What are DMARDs?

DMARDs are a class of drugs that are used to treat autoimmune diseases such as RA. They work by suppressing the inflammation that causes pain and damage to the joints and other organs. In RA, the body’s immune system attacks the synovial membrane, which lines the joints. This leads to the production of chemicals that cause inflammation, resulting in joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. DMARDs work by slowing down or stopping this process, which prevents further damage to the joints and other organs.

Types of DMARDs

There are two main types of DMARDs; synthetic and biologic. Synthetic DMARDs, such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine and leflunomide, are made in the laboratory and are generally less expensive than biologic DMARDs. Biologic DMARDs, such as adalimumab, etanercept and infliximab, are made from living cells and are usually more expensive. They are often prescribed when synthetic DMARDs are not effective or are poorly tolerated.

How DMARDs Work?

DMARDs work by blocking specific immune cells or chemical signals that contribute to inflammation. Methotrexate, for example, prevents the production of folic acid, which is needed for the production of immune cells. It also reduces the activity of a chemical signal called TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor), which contributes to inflammation. Biologic DMARDs, on the other hand, target specific immune cells or chemical signals, such as TNF or interleukins, that contribute to inflammation.

Effectiveness of DMARDs

DMARDs can be highly effective in treating RA and other autoimmune diseases. Methotrexate and other synthetic DMARDs have been shown to slow down the progression of joint damage and improve symptoms. Biologic DMARDs, such as TNF inhibitors, have been shown to be effective in reducing joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as improving physical function. However, not all patients will respond to DMARDs, and some may experience side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or headaches.

Conclusion

DMARDs are an important class of drugs that can help to control the symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as RA. They work by suppressing the inflammation that causes pain and damage to the joints and other organs. There are different types of DMARDs, including synthetic and biologic. DMARDs can be highly effective in treating RA, but not all patients will respond to them, and they may cause side effects. If you have been diagnosed with RA or another autoimmune disease, talk to your doctor to see if DMARDs may be a suitable treatment option for you.

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