Rheumatology Medications
Not every medication is appropriate for all autoimmune conditions. Your rheumatologist will work with you to find the right treatment for your diagnosis based on your medical history.
What are DMARDs and Biologics?
DMARDs and biologics are two main groups of medicines used to treat rheumatic autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, and others. These conditions happen when the immune system becomes overactive and starts to attack the body.
DMARDs stands for Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs. These medicines help calm the immune system, reduce inflammation, and prevent long-term joint or organ damage. They do not work right away, but they protect your body over time. Common DMARDs include methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, and leflunomide. Some people take one DMARD, while others may need a combination.
Most DMARDs require regular bloodwork monitoring. If you are unsure or if you have misplaced your standing order lab requisition, please contact your Rheumatologist.
Biologics are a newer type of treatment. They are made from natural proteins and target very specific parts of the immune system. Because they are more “precise,” they can be very effective for people who do not improve enough with regular DMARDs. Biologics are usually given by injection or intravenous infusion. They also work to prevent damage, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Biologics are immunosuppressing medications, so patients will be screened for infections prior to use (i.e. viral hepatitis and tuberculosis) and are monitored closely with regular follow-up visits. Sometimes biologics are combined with a DMARD, such as methotrexate, to help them work better.
Targeted synthetic DMARDs are newer pill medications that block very specific steps in the immune system. They help reduce inflammation and prevent long-term damage in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. These medicines are an option when regular DMARDs are not enough, similar to Biologics.
In general, it is recommended patients be up to date with their vaccinations prior to starting biologics or targeted synthetic DMARDs.
Click the link below to learn more about specific rheumatologic medications: