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[A new approach to rheumatoid arthritis]
1Academisch Ziekenhuis, afd. Reumatologie, Leiden.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|April 12, 1997
Summary
Slow-acting antirheumatic drugs (SAARDs) should be used early in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to prevent joint damage and disability. Early SAARDs treatment offers functional benefits with side effects comparable to other antirheumatics.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) involves early articular damage leading to disability.
- Current practice delays the use of slow-acting antirheumatic drugs (SAARDs).
Purpose:
- To advocate for the early prescription of SAARDs in rheumatoid arthritis.
- To highlight the role of SAARDs in preventing early joint damage and subsequent disability.
Summary:
- Articular damage in RA begins early and is linked to future disability.
- SAARDs are intended to prevent this early damage.
- Evidence suggests SAARDs should be initiated early due to functional benefits and comparable side effect profiles.
Impact:
- Early SAARDs initiation can mitigate long-term disability in RA patients.
- Optimizing RA treatment protocols to include early SAARDs may improve patient outcomes.
- This approach addresses the critical need for early intervention in managing rheumatoid arthritis progression.