New therapeutic options in rheumatoid arthritis: a focus on interleukin-6 blockade

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic and incurable autoimmune disease characterized by synovial joint damage and systemic inflammation, often leads to substantial disability and reduced quality of life. Biologics, a class of medication that targets key pathways in the RA inflammatory response, have increased therapeutic options in the past decade. Because several biologics are administered intravenously, specialized training in administration and updates on RA management are increasingly needed. This article reviews the pathogenesis of RA and the biologics newly approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, such as the interleukin-6 inhibitor tocilizumab, including their targets in the inflammatory cascade.