DMARDs are immune-modulating drugs that reduce inflammation and slow disease progression in autoimmune conditions. They are widely used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Lupus, and other inflammatory diseases. China offers cost-effective DMARD therapy, including methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, biologic DMARDs, and JAK inhibitors.
What Diseases Are Treated with DMARDs?
DMARDs are primarily used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including:
✅ Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – Slows joint damage and inflammation.
✅ Psoriatic Arthritis – Reduces immune overactivity and skin inflammation.
✅ Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) – Controls immune system attacks.
✅ Ankylosing Spondylitis – Helps prevent spinal joint fusion.
✅ Vasculitis – Treats inflammation of blood vessels.
✅ Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – Used in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Types of DMARDs & Mechanism of Action
There are three main categories of DMARDs: 1️⃣ Conventional Synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs)
- Examples: Methotrexate, Hydroxychloroquine, Sulfasalazine, Leflunomide
- Mechanism of Action: Slows immune system overactivity, reducing inflammation.
- Used for: RA, Psoriasis, Lupus.
2️⃣ Biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs)
- Examples: Adalimumab (Humira), Etanercept (Enbrel), Infliximab (Remicade)
- Mechanism of Action: Targets specific immune proteins (TNF, IL-6, IL-17, B cells).
- Used for: RA, Psoriatic Arthritis, Crohn’s disease.
3️⃣ Targeted Synthetic DMARDs (tsDMARDs)
- Examples: JAK Inhibitors (Tofacitinib, Baricitinib, Upadacitinib)
- Mechanism of Action: Blocks JAK enzymes that trigger inflammation.
- Used for: RA, Psoriasis, Ulcerative Colitis.
DMARDs vs. NSAIDs: What’s the Difference?
- DMARDs modify the disease course and prevent long-term damage.
- NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen) only provide short-term pain relief but do not stop disease progression.
Common DMARDs & Their Side Effects
- Methotrexate: Most common RA treatment, but may cause nausea, liver toxicity, and lung issues.
- Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil): Used for RA and lupus, may cause eye complications.
- Sulfasalazine: Effective for joint and gut inflammation but may cause stomach upset.
- Biologic DMARDs (Humira, Enbrel, Remicade): Highly effective, but increase infection risk.
- JAK Inhibitors (Xeljanz, Olumiant): Newer DMARDs that reduce inflammation quickly but may increase blood clot risk.
DMARDs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- First-line treatment for RA.
- Methotrexate is the most commonly prescribed DMARD.
- Biologics and JAK inhibitors are used for severe cases.
- Long-term use helps prevent joint deformities.
DMARDs for Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis
- Biologic DMARDs (Humira, Cosentyx) are highly effective.
- Methotrexate is often used for moderate cases.
- JAK inhibitors are emerging as new treatment options.
Why Choose DMARDs Treatment in China?
✔️ Lower cost compared to Western countries.
✔️ Access to biologic and synthetic DMARDs.
✔️ Combination therapy available with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
✔️ Comprehensive rehabilitation and patient monitoring.
