Rheumatoid Arthritis Health Center

Life With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Newer, Better Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis continued...

Today, DMARDs are prescribed earlier in treatment than ever before, Lindsey says. "The most joint damage and deformity occurs in the first two years and will progress over time, leading to disability. We can prevent that joint damage."

A newer class of drugs -- biological response modifiers, or biologics -- is generating the most excitement. Evidence shows that biologics can actually halt the disease when used early on, he tells WebMD. "Instead of seeing the progressive deterioration and disability, we can now stop disease progression." Biologics approved by the FDA include Enbrel, Humira, Kineret, Orencia, Remicade, Cimzia, Xeljanz, and Rituxan.

Very often, patients are switched to different drugs -- and often take multiple drugs -- during the course of treatment, he points out. "Each patient is different, so we have to follow them really carefully, every month. If they don't improve, we quickly move to a different drug."

Guillory now takes a biologic drug to better control her disease. And it has, she reports. It's also made a huge difference in her quality of life, she tells WebMD. "Before I started taking it, I would be exhausted by midday, ready for a nap. Now I don't have as many days that I'm tired. It's made a tremendous difference."

Optimism Helps With Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

After coping with rheumatoid arthritis for nearly 20 years, Guillory offers these words of wisdom: "Try to be careful in your everyday activities. Don't do anything that will damage your joints. Take medications as you're supposed to. Also, take things day by day. Hold on to positive thoughts."

Indeed, honing your coping skills is important, Lindsey says. "Having a good attitude, taking care of yourself, taking the medicines, getting regular exercise, volunteering to help other people with the disease -- all those things help you feel better about yourself, and that helps you cope."

He advises patients to take advantage of Arthritis Foundation programs, including water therapy classes and educational programs (to learn more about their disease). "You'll get to know others who are dealing with the same disease. You'll learn about volunteer opportunities. Those things take your mind off yourself, which always makes you feel better."