Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

The management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains a challenging objective. Recent trends have led to the earlier and more ''aggressive'' treatment of patients with active disease. This change in outlook is largely the result of the recognition that significant damage can occur fairly soon after the onset of disease. This article reviews the currently available therapies, including a discussion of the benefits and side effects associated with individual agents. Ln addition, possible approaches to the treatment of RA will be reviewed.