Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs, commonly referred to as DMARDs, are pharmaceuticals used to modify the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. The phonetic transcription of the word DMARDs is /diːmɑːrdz/, with the "d" and "m" pronounced separately, followed by a long "a" and then a rolled "r". The final "s" is pronounced as a soft "z". Accurate spelling and pronunciation of this term is important for healthcare professionals to effectively communicate with patients and colleagues about treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are a class of medications used in the treatment of chronic autoimmune disorders, specifically rheumatoid arthritis. These drugs are designed to modify the course of the disease by targeting the underlying mechanisms that cause inflammation and damage in the affected joints.
DMARDs work by suppressing the overactive immune response responsible for the excessive inflammation seen in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. By doing so, they aim to not only alleviate symptoms but also slow down or even halt the progression of the disease. These drugs go beyond mere pain relief and provide long-term benefits by reducing joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and the risk of permanent joint damage.
There are several types of DMARDs, including conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs) such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and leflunomide, as well as targeted synthetic DMARDs (tsDMARDs) like Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and biological DMARDs (bDMARDs) such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. Each type of DMARD works through different pathways of the immune system to achieve disease modification.
DMARDs are typically prescribed by rheumatologists and require regular monitoring to assess their effectiveness and potential side effects. They are usually used in combination with other medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids to provide comprehensive management of autoimmune diseases and improve overall quality of life for affected individuals.