What is the safest medication for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
I have been on methotrexate since January 2011. I wonder is there anything out there that actually prevents joints damage but is less harmful. I am also taking prednisone daily. Does that ever change?
Thanks.
Gold injections!!!
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There are lots of things you can try, but most of them are aimed at alleviating pain. The problem with RA is that it is an autoimmune disease, so meds are aimed at reducing your immune system’s unreasonable attack on your joints. These medications are pretty extreme by nature.
Go through the article below, and follow some of the links in it. They are useful in explaining why you are taking what you are taking, and what side effects you might notice. You should discuss with your doctor the long-term course of your treatment, and how to avoid some of the problems.
Every patient is different. What is “harmful” to one patient may be perfectly safe for another. As Sandra said, your immune system will be greatly compromised on most of the highly effective medications. I started acupuncture a year ago to combat my joint pain. I had no idea that it works to increase immunity as well. I have felt much better in the last 12 months than I had in the previous 13 years. It may be worth a try, but be sure to research before choosing an acupuncturist. I go to one that is affiliated with my health care clinic and hospital. Good luck!
Methotrexate helps the most, with the least permanent side effects when compared to other drugs, Also, It is still the most effective treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatologists will always use it in conjunction with other treatments.
Prednisone is a “bridge” medicine to help you manage symptoms until the disease treatments become effective. As with any medication it is always a question of benefit vs. side effects, but your symptoms would have to be severe to stay on it indefinitely.
You should check out the second website I listed below if you really want information on something safe.