Rheumatoid Arthritis

Question 1

Methotrexate

Answer 1

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

Slows disease progression

Risk of toxicity and some not safe in pregnancy

Question 2

hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)

Answer 2

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

Slows disease progression

Risk of toxicity and some not safe in pregnancy

Question 3

etanercept (Enbrel), infliximab (Remicade), adalimumab (Humira)

Answer 3

Slows disease progression for patients who haven’t responded to DMARDs by inhibiting inflammation.

Question 4

Corticosteroids

Answer 4

To treat exacerbations
Oral or intraarticular injections
Do not affect disease progression
Complications include osteoporosis and avascular necrosis.

Side effects
Cushing’s syndrome
GI irritation
Osteoporosis
HTN
Psychosis
Hyperglycemia
Risk of infection

Corticosteroids, NSAIDs, and Aspirin: Give w/ food

Question 5

NSAIDs and salicylates

Answer 5

For pain and inflammation
Aspirin may be used in dosages of 3 to 4 g/day in 3 to 4 doses.
NSAIDs have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.