Early RA: The Potential Role for Biologic Therapy | Arthritis Information

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by joint inflammation and subsequent articular destruction. Untreated, RA is associated with progressive functional disability, substantial morbidity, and even accelerated mortality. In recent years, the addition of novel biologic therapies to conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) treatment has improved the management of RA, with better clinical response rates and improved control of radiographic progression. Initial studies with biologics included patients with long-standing, established RA. Such patients had failed therapy with previous DMARDs. To better understand the effects of biologics in early RA, recent trials have recruited patients earlier in their disease course.^[1-10] As more data from trials of novel treatment regimens in early RA become available, some questions remain that will affect how such treatment paradigms will be adopted.

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/570466This is so important for everyone to remember!

"Untreated, RA is associated with progressive functional disability, substantial morbidity, and even accelerated mortality."

There have been loads of worries over beginning or adding to treatments on the forum lately. We do need to be educated on the potential side effects of our meds, but we need to be equally aware of what untreated or under treated RA is capable of doing.

Good post and reminder that not treating RA due to the fear of medications may be more damaging in the long term. You hear way too often that once damage is done it can't be reversed. For me, that is a much worse side-effect.

[QUOTE=CathyMN]

[/QUOTE]

That's what has motivated me. I had damage early on in my ankle and that damage happened in less than 6 months...