Option 3: Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with RA. They mimic the effects of hormones naturally produced by the adrenal glands, which help regulate the body’s immune response.
These medications can be taken orally, injected directly into affected joints, or administered through intravenous infusion, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s needs. Examples of corticosteroids include prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone.
Corticosteroids can provide rapid relief of symptoms, making them particularly useful during flare-ups or when initiating treatment with DMARDs, which may take several weeks to become effective. However, due to potential side effects, corticosteroids are generally used for short-term symptom management or as a bridge therapy until other medications take effect.
Long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to various side effects, including weight gain, increased risk of infections, osteoporosis, and adrenal suppression. Therefore, healthcare providers will typically prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to minimize these risks. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are essential to ensure the safe use of corticosteroids. (3)
