DMARDs (obj 47)

Question 1

This drug is the mainstay of treatment for RA and psoriatic arthritis.

Answer 1

methotrexate

Question 2

These 2 drugs are TNF-alpha blockers.

Answer 2

etanercept (Enbrel)

infliximab

Question 3

This drug is an antimalarial used in combination with methotrexate to slow joint damage from RA.

Answer 3

hydroxychloroquine

Question 4

When this drug is used, patients must be monitored for CBC and liver function.

Answer 4

azathioprine

Question 5

This drug is used in combination with NSAIDs and/or glucocorticoids but should NOT be used in combination with DMARDs due to serious adverse events.

Answer 5

penicillamine

Question 6

This drug may cause ocular toxicity including irreversible retinal damage and corneal deposits.

Answer 6

hydroxychloroquine

Question 7

This drug is a weak DMARD and is used in combination with hydroxychloroquine and methotrexate.

Answer 7

sulfasalazine

Question 8

Initial regimen for RA:
If that is not effective, then step up to:
If that is not effective, then step up to:

Answer 8

initial: methotrexate
next: “triple therapy” - methotrexate + hydroxychloroquine + sulfasalazine
next: methotrexate + anti-TNF-alpha

Question 9

What is a serious side effect of the TNF-alpha inhibitors?

Answer 9

increased risk of malignancy

Question 10

What is a serious side effect of azathioprine?

Answer 10

increased risk of malignancy & hematologic toxicity