Refractory rheumatoid arthritis. Therapeutic options.
Because rheumatoid arthritis rarely remits, refractory disease is common. Attention should be paid to aggravating comorbid conditions. Pharmacologic options currently available include cyclosporin, high-dose methotrexate, combination second-line agents, and creative use of corticosteroids. The available literature is reviewed in this article and the potential risks and benefits of the various options are discussed.
Cash
J M
JM
Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio, USA.
Wilder
R L
RL
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D018501:Antirheumatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016572:Cyclosporine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D018501:Antirheumatic Agents; D016572:Cyclosporine