Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, which means your immune system attacks your own body, causing widespread inflammation, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Function
Treatment for lupus and lupus arthritis aims to help in five areas, according to the Lupus Foundation of America: reduce inflammation, suppress your immune system, prevent and treat flare ups of the condition, control symptoms like joint pain, and limit any damage to your body and organs.
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Anti-Inflammatory drugs help reduce inflammation and pain and include aspirin, acetominophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin) and celecoxib (Celebrex).
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids, also called glucocorticoids, steroids or cortisone, help to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, heat, tenderness and pain.
Antimalarials
These drugs are used with other medications for lupus arthritis and help with joint pain.
Immunosuppressives
Immunosuppressives are used to bring down an overactive immune system and reduce inflammation when steroids have not been effective in controlling symptoms.
