DMARDs-What Are They?

DMARDs-What are they?

Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs, what a mouthful! DMARD is much easier to say! What are they and what do they do? Good question but not easy to answer, however I'll give it my best shot. 

This group of medications known as DMARDs is actually many different types of drugs. They all have one thing in common, the ability to slow down the disease process in inflammatory arthritis. Just how they accomplish that task varies with each drug and is some cases, no one really knows.

Many DMARDs work by suppressing an over active immune system, which is believed to be at the root of most cases of inflammatory arthritis. Two examples of this type of drug are: methotrexate and Imuran. Neither was designed with arthritis in mind, but both have been proven to be quite beneficial to those with rheumatic diseases. 

Others work by targeting a specific component of inflammation. Examples of this type include: Enbrel and Remicade, both inhibit the tumor necrosis factor, a component of inflammation. Enbrel is one of the few DMARDS created specifically for rheuamtic diseases. Most others were developed for other conditions, but over time were found to be effective disease modifiers.

Many others work by ways that are unknown. Plaquenil is a good example. It is an effective DMARD for many, but no one knows exactly how or why it works on inflammatory arthritis. To most of us, the hows and whys are not that important if the medication does its job without intolerable side effects. We'll take what we can get, as long as it works!

As you begin to research DMARD options you will find that many have the potential for serious side effects. You must keep in mind that they list all possible reactions. These side effects don't necessarily happen to all people taking them or even the majority of people taking them. Most people can tolerate most DMARDs without major side effects.

Frequent blood work is the norm when taking many DMARDs. This allows the doctor to monitor the impact these drugs may have on the internal organs. Many of the adverse reactions can be reversed if caught early. For this reason it is imperative that you keep all appointments and follow any instructions given. 

It is extremely important that you are aware of all the possible side effects before you begin treatment. You need to carefully weigh the known risks of the treatment versus the possible benefit. Only then can you make an educated, knowledgeable decision.