Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune systemic inflammatory disease affecting approximately 1% of the worldwide population. The first structure that is affected in RA is synovial joints that lines the joint capsules and creates synovial fluid for the joints in the hands and feet. Secondly, inflammatory changes result in cartilage and bone destruction which further leads to multiple organ systems disorders. RA significantly affects the quality of life of patients because of pain, fatigue, loss of bodily function, and heavy economic burden.
The first line of treatment is controlling pain and inflammation, and further slowing or arresting the progression of joint destruction. The treatment of RA is still unsatisfactory, but a number of powerful disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs have become available. This article will focus on benefits and adverse effects of DMARDs. …
