Psoriatic arthritis refers to a painful condition of your joints that usually accompanies a serious skin disease called psoriasis. The Mayo Clinic states that symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include joint pain, swelling and warmth over your joints. Usually these symptoms follow a specific pattern and can affect one side of your body or both sides of your body. It can also wreak havoc on your spinal joints or destroy the bones in your hands. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, approximately 30 percent of people suffering from psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis. If you suffer from psoriatic arthritis, there are an array of medications to treat this incapacitating disease.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin are available over-the-counter and with your doctor's prescription. NSAIDs help to decrease your joint swelling, pain and stiffness especially when you awake in the morning, according to the Mayo Clinic. Unfortunately, too many NSAIDs can lead to ulcers, gastrointestinal (of your digestive system) bleeding, kidney problems and even heart failure (inability of your heart to pump enough blood to the rest of your body).
Drugs that Affect Immune System
Immunosuppressive medications such as cyclosporine or methotrexate are also promising treatment options for psoriatic arthritis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, these medications can provide symptomatic relief and prevent joint destruction. On the flip side, cyclosporine can cause kidney damage and methotrexate can cause liver damage. You must see your doctor regularly as she can monitor you for these harmful side effects.
Disease-modifying Anti-rheumatic Drugs
Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as sulfasalazine can help decrease your psoriatic joint pain and inflammation. According to the Mayo Clinic, DMARDs might take weeks to months to become effective. Because of this delay in symptomatic relief, your doctor will most likely prescribe an NSAID with a DMARD.
Corticosteroids
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, corticosteroids are usually indicated for long-term psoriatic arthritis treatment. This medication is available orally or as an injection to help relieve joint inflammation and swelling.
TNF-Alpha Inhibitors
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors such as infliximab or etanercept are used to treat severe psoriatic arthritis. According to the Mayo Clinic, these medications cause you to stop producing a specific protein in your body responsible for inflammation. These medications are pricey, and you should check with your insurance company about covering the costs for this helpful treatment.
