Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease.
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What Are Experimental Therapies?
Researchers test these therapies in clinical trials to see how well they work.
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JAK inhibitors may be used alone or with other RA medicines for a compound effect.
Fenebrutinib showed similar results when compared to the popular RA drug Humira (adalimumab).
Biologic Drugs
Biologics are a subset of DMARDs that are made in living cells.
Sarilumab (Kevzara), is the newest IL-6 inhibitor to be approved by the FDA to treat RA.
This nerve is involved in regulating inflammation in the body.
In a small pilot study, investigators implanted vagus nerve neurostimulators or placebos in 14 people with RA.
Other Treatments
Several other treatments are on the horizon for RA.
Progress Over Three Decades
Treatments for RA have evolved dramatically over the last three decades.
Some of the first therapies focused only on providing symptom relief.
Then, treatment options progressed to impact disease activity and slow joint damage.
Affordability and Financial Assistance
RA therapies can be costly.
The most expensive can run more than $500,000.
Many organizations, such asGood Days, provide financial assistance to people with chronic illnesses.
Drug companies may also offer discounts to patients in need.
RA Drug Side Effects
As with most treatments, RA drugs can cause unwanted symptoms.
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