Glucocorticoids for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Glucocorticoids quickly improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as pain and stiffness, and also decrease joint swelling and tenderness. Glucocorticoids may be taken by mouth, injected into a vein, or injected directly into a joint. Drugs in this class include prednisone and prednisolone. Steroids Glucocorticoids, also called steroids have strong anti-inflammatory effects. TNF-inhibitors have been associated with a further increase in the risk of lymphoma in some studies; more research is needed to define this risk. TNF-inhibitors are not recommended for people who have lymphoma or have been treated for lymphoma in the past; people with rheumatoid arthritis, especially those with severe disease, have an increased risk of lymphoma regardless of what treatment is used. People who have evidence of prior TB infection should be treated because there is an increased risk of developing active TB while receiving anti-TNF therapy. Testing for tuberculosis is necessary before starting anti-TNF therapy. Side effects Biologic response modifiers interfere with the immune system's ability to fight infection and should not be used in people with serious infections. Remicade, Orencia and Rituxan must be injected into a vein, which is typically done in a doctor's office or clinic; this takes between one and three hours to complete.