Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks tissues that line the joints and other organs in the body. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but previous virus infections may be related. This condition is most common in women. Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint pain, stiffness and deformity in the knees, wrists, fingers and ankles, states MedlinePlus, of the National Institutes of Health. Treatment involves various medications that may cause significant complications. Thus, a patient should be warned about the effects of common rheumatoid arthritis medications.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are first-line drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. These medications reduce chemical signals that cause pain and inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, these medications are available over the counter or by prescription and include Aleve, Advil and Motrin. Although effective in treating symptoms, NSAIDs may cause adverse effects that a patient should be warned about. Specifically, NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding, kidney damage, liver damage or heart problems if taken over the long term or if taken in high doses, states Drugs.com. Thus, patients with pre-existing heart, liver, stomach or kidney problems should consult a doctor before taking NSAIDs. Seek immediate medical treatment if you have stomach pain, bloody vomit, bloody stools, dark urine or chest pain.
Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs
Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, or DMARDs, are the current standard of care for rheumatoid arthritis, states MedlinePlus. These medications are started early in the treatment plan but do not affect symptoms for a few weeks. Medications in this drugs class include methotrexate and leflunomide. DMARDs are effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis but carry a risk of severe side effects that may be fatal. Drugs.com states that a patient should be warned about the possibility of fetal death and congenital abnormalities in pregnant women, kidney and liver damage, bone marrow suppression, anemia, gastrointestinal toxicity, lung disease, skin reactions, and potentially fatal infections. Because of these serious risks, discuss the risks and benefits of DMARDs with your rheumatologist before proceeding.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids may also be prescribed to treat symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Corticosteroids are strong anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis. Short-term or low-dose corticosteroids provide little risk; however, large-dose or long-term corticosteroid therapy can cause serious side effects. Drugs.com states that a patient taking large amounts of corticosteroids may experience weight gain, high blood sugar levels, menstrual irregularities, skin changes, gastrointestinal problems and high blood pressure. If you experience these symptoms, do not abruptly stop taking corticosteroids, but call your doctor and report the experienced side effects.
