Journal of Developing Drugs
Open Access

An Overview on Classification of Anti-Rheumatic Drugs

Giovanni Andrea^{* *}Correspondence: Giovanni Andrea, Department of Drug Testing, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy, Email:

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Description

Antirheumatic drugs are medications that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of inflammatory arthritis. These drugs work by reducing inflammation in the joints, thereby relieving pain and improving joint function. These drugs can be classified into several categories based on their mode of action and the type of rheumatic disease they are used to treat.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of antirheumatic drugs that are used to treat the symptoms of arthritis, including pain, swelling, and stiffness. These drugs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause inflammation. NSAIDs can be taken orally, topically, or as an injection, and are generally safe when used as directed. However, long-term use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and cardiovascular events.

Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)

Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) are another class of antirheumatic drugs that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of inflammatory arthritis. Unlike NSAIDs, which only treat the symptoms of arthritis, DMARDs actually work to slow the progression of the disease. There are several types of DMARDs, including methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, and sulfasalazine. These drugs work by suppressing the immune system, which is responsible for the inflammation that causes arthritis. DMARDs can have serious side effects, including liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and an increased risk of infection.

Biologic DMARDs are a newer class of antirheumatic drugs that are designed to target specific proteins that are involved in the immune system's inflammatory response. These drugs are typically used in patients who have not responded to traditional DMARDs. Biologic DMARDs can be effective in reducing inflammation and improving joint function, but they are also associated with an increased risk of infection, as well as other side effects such as injection site reactions, allergic reactions, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Janus Kinase inhibitors (JAK inhibitors)

Janus Kinase inhibitors (JAK inhibitors) are another newer class of antirheumatic drugs that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. JAK inhibitors work by blocking the activity of enzymes called Janus kinases, which are involved in the immune system's inflammatory response. These drugs are taken orally and can be effective in reducing inflammation and improving joint function, but they are also associated with an increased risk of infection, as well as other side effects such as gastrointestinal problems and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

While antirheumatic drugs can be effective in treating the symptoms of arthritis and slowing the progression of the disease, they are not without their risks. Patients who take these drugs need to be closely monitored for side effects, and their treatment regimens may need to be adjusted based on their individual response to the medication. In addition, patients with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or kidney disease, may not be able to take certain types of antirheumatic drugs.

It is also important to note that while antirheumatic drugs can be effective in treating the symptoms of arthritis, they are not a cure for the disease. Patients may still experience pain and stiffness, even with treatment, and may need to use other strategies, such as physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle changes, to manage their symptoms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, antirheumatic drugs are an important tool in the management of rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of inflammatory arthritis. These drugs can help to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve joint function, but they are not without their risks. Patients who take antirheumatic drugs need to be closely monitored for side effects and may need to make adjustments to their treatment regimens over time.