Biologics Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Overview
Biologics is a relatively new class of drugs that has proven beneficial for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, along with a wide range of other diseases. Rather than being created through chemistry, biologic drugs are produced by biological processes.
Why Biologics?
Biologics can be genetically engineered from human genes to work seamlessly with the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Instead of affecting the entire immune system in a sweeping, unfocused manner, biologics can be tailored to precisely target specific molecules within the body. In some cases, biologics can be successful when no other treatments are effective.
Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis
Biologics combat rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting specific molecules (made by the body’s own cells) that play a role in exciting the inflammation response. Inflammation is a key symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, and by inhibiting these molecules, biologic agents prevent or reduce the inflammation and slow the progression of the disease.
Ground-Breaking Medicine
Biologics have proven to be a groundbreaking field of medicine, with several biologic drugs on the market and many more in development. For many patients, biologics, taken alone or paired with other types of medications, can play a key role in the treatment of severe rheumatoid arthritis.