Medication

Yes, RA can get better with medication. The tricky thing is, everyone seems to respond differently to the medication options. We know that it is important to start treatment early to prevent joint and other damages, even organ damage, from RA.

If you'd like to share more information, it's okay of you don't - Are you recently diagnosed with RA? Considering medications? Wonder about specific medications?

Here is a primer on RA medications.
https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment/drugs-and-prescription-medications-for-ra


Please let us know if you have more specific information or if we can help with more information. Its a great idea to cruise our website for tons of information on RA.
I Hope we can help you learn more about RA, Jo

Hi . To follow up on the information provided by Jo, I want to note the balance between taking the medications and uncontrolled RA. My wife, Kelly Mack (a contributor here), was diagnosed at age two, 45 years ago - before modern treatments, with the damage to show for it. She had her first joint replacements, both hips and both knees done at 15 and 16 respectively and has used a wheelchair since her teens. Five years ago she started a treatment that brought her inflammation numbers into the normal range for the first time. Finding a treatment can be difficult, but hope is real. On more than one occasion we have discussed with her rheumatologist the hope that children diagnosed today won't get the same level of damage. All of that said, Kelly's case is considered extreme and the potential side effects of medications are real. Each person, in consultation with their doctors, needs to weigh the risks in relation to their individual circumstances. Kelly has had to change medications due to side effects and ineffectiveness, but, in her case, medications have enabled control of what was an out of control condition. Hopefully others will chime in with their experiences. Wishing you the best and know that, whatever you decide, this community is here for you. Richard (Team Member)

RA meds slow the progression of the disease. By trial and error, your rheumatologist will find what works best for you. It may be a “cocktail” and goodness! it takes time.

Your Dr will walk with you through this. As Jo said, we are here for you.

I finally was diagnosed last year after having symptoms and joint damage over 40 years. The meds haven't worked at all. I was planning to try Humira in July when medicare starts, but I would have to pay $3000 before I would get coverage. I'll be opting out of that. I have a already spent too much $ on doctor visits and testing with no relief. It's quite frustrating.