People can react differently to different medications, so it can be normal to try a number of treatment options to see what works for you.
If you’re not seeing improvements in your RA, it could be time to rethink your treatment plan. Speak up at your next rheumatologist visit and ask about different treatment options.
There are many medications currently available to help reduce inflammation, joint pain, or swelling associated with RA. That’s why it’s important to work closely with a rheumatologist to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment options and develop a plan that’s right for you. Some RA medication options include:
Analgesics
Pain relief medications like acetaminophen
NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like aspirin and ibuprofen, help reduce pain and inflammation
Biologics
Work by targeting a specific part of the immune system in order to reduce the inflammation seen in RA—one example of a biologic is a TNF inhibitor
Corticosteroids
Used broadly to help reduce pain and inflammation for a short term
DMARDs
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs is a general name for the large number of medicines, like methotrexate, that modify the course of RA itself
Oral Small Molecules
Block parts of the body’s immune response in order to reduce inflammation—one example of an oral small molecule is a JAK-inhibitor
All medications have side effects. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of your treatment options. These medications should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Always tell your doctor about any side effects you may be experiencing. Looking for a rheumatologist? Find one now »
Dr. Grace Wright discusses the signs of undertreatment and when to consider a change in treatment plans.
The goal is to get this disease under control.
-Dr. Grace Wright
Many people take over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription pain medicine in addition to other medicines they use to treat rheumatoid arthritis. But continued use of pain medicine may be a sign your RA symptoms are not being managed effectively. It’s important to consider the risks and benefits of all medications with your rheumatologist. Learn how to talk to your rheumatologist about setting treatment goals »
Considering treatment options?
Learn about a treatment option for moderate to severe RA and talk to your rheumatologist to see if it could be right for you.
Speak up and talk openly with your rheumatologist about how you’ve been feeling. Certain details about your RA could help determine if a change in treatment may be needed.
A change in treatment plans could help you reach your treatment goals. And if you’re finding your current medication isn’t working for you, consider other options with your rheumatologist. Don’t have one?
Hear why people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have partnered with a rheumatologist to find the right treatment plan for them.
If you’re not feeling good, you need to say, ‘I need to try something different.’
- Carol
Which describes your outlook when considering RA treatment plans?
Which describes your outlook when considering RA treatment plans?
Working with your rheumatologist is key to finding the right RA treatment plan for you. The My RA Check-In can help you and your rheumatologist determine if you need to change your treatment plan.
