With the advances in science and technology, we have seen a lot of progress in the field of medicine as well. Researchers and scientists have now come up with drugs and medications far superior than earlier available. Here is an account of the new-age drugs which have come to help many suffering from arthritis.

Newer “second-line” drugs to control rheumatoid arthritis include leflunomide, and the “biologic” medications etanercept, infliximab, anakinra, and adalimumab. Compared to traditional DMARDs, biologic medication acts faster and effectively stops progressive joint damage. Other medication that can take care of rheumatoid arthritis and is the product of modern biotechnology is referred to as biologic medication or biological response modifier.

In general, its system of action is more direct and focused. Leflunomide gives respite from symptoms and stops the disease from spreading in the system. It de-activates an important enzyme that functions to activate immunity.

On the other hand, arava can cause liver disease, diarrhea, hair loss, and/or rash in some patients. Taking it during pregnancy may cause birth defects. Etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab are all biologic medications. These medicines intercept the tumor necrosis factor, or TNF in the joints, that causes inflammation before it can act on its natural receptor, to “switch on” inflammation. This effectively blocks it from calling out to the cells that cause inflammation. Symptoms can be significantly and often rapidly improved in patients. Etanercept is injected subcutaneously once or twice a week. Infliximab is given intravenously. Adalimumab is injected subcutaneously either every, or alternate week.

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