antirheumatoid

Antirheumatoid refers to a class of medications used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints. These medications work by inhibiting the immune system's response to the body's own tissues, thereby reducing inflammation and joint damage. Antirheumatoid drugs are typically prescribed when conventional treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are insufficient.

Common antirheumatoid medications include:

1. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors: These drugs target TNF-alpha, a protein that plays a key role in inflammation. Examples include adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel), and infliximab (Remicade).

2. Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors: These medications block the JAK enzymes, which are involved in the signaling pathways of various cytokines, including TNF-alpha. Examples include tofacitinib (Xeljanz) and upadacitinib (Rinvoq).

3. B-cell depletion therapies: These drugs target and deplete B cells, which play a significant role in the immune response. Rituximab (Rituxan) is an example of this class of medication.

4. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) inhibitors: These drugs target IL-1, another cytokine involved in inflammation. Anakinra (Kineret) is an example of this class.

Antirheumatoid medications are often used in combination with other treatments to achieve optimal results. They are typically administered via injection or orally, depending on the specific drug. As with any medication, antirheumatoid drugs can have side effects and potential risks, and their use should be closely monitored by a healthcare professional.