A joint is the location at which two or more bones make contact. The joint allows movement and provides mechanical support. Joint discomfort is a common physical ailment affecting millions of Americans. Joint pain due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and other related conditions are treated with anti-inflammatory medications such as Celebrex, Rituxan and Enbrel.
Celebrex
Celebrex is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication used for the treatment rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. According to Arthritis.org, prostaglandins are chemical mediators that contribute to the onset and progression of inflammatory arthritis. Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes are necessary for the production of prostaglandins, and COX-2 is believed to be main contributor of prostaglandin synthesis associated with joint inflammation. Celebrex blocks the activity of COX-2, resulting in lower concentrations of prostaglandins, and consequently the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis is relieved.
Rituxan
Rheumatoid arthritis is believed to be caused by auto-reactive B lymphocytes, specifically CD20-positive B cells that release pro-inflammatory cytokines that promote joint destruction. Rituxan is a monoclonal antibody used for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. According to Drugs.com, it selectively targets CD20-positive B cells and selectively depletes mature and malignant CD20 B cells. This depletion of CD20-positive B cells effectively reduces the signs and symptoms of active rheumatoid arthritis.
Enbrel
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is an inflammatory cytokine released by activated monocytes, macrophages and T lymphocytes, and is a key player in inflammatory arthritis. TNF-alpha binds to type 2 TNF receptors and promotes inflammation. Etanercept, the generic name of the brand-name medication Enbrel, binds to TNF alpha and prevents it from binding to its receptor, thus resulting in less inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Enbrel is effective at reducing the disease activity of rheumatoid arthritis and limiting the progressive damage to the joints.
