Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs or DMARDs are the first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. While each medication in this group is different, they can all help slow inflammation, thus reducing symptoms and damage to the joints. They are often prescribed after initial diagnosis. Common DMARDs for rheumatoid arthritis include leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, and methotrexate. Which option your healthcare provider chooses will depend on certain factors, such as the balance between possible benefits and side effects as well as the severity of the condition. Since DMARDs may lose effectiveness gradually, they are often combined with other medications to treat rheumatoid arthritis. [1]
