The first disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) your doctor will prescribe is methotrexate (Otrexup, Rheumatrex, Trexall). You can take it as a pill or give yourself a shot. It may ease pain and swelling in your joints and make complications less likely. You'll have to get regular blood tests to make sure the drug doesn't harm your liver or reduce blood counts. Other DMARDs that slow inflammation and the progression of rheumatoid arthritis include:
You often take these medications in combinations.
- Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)
- Leflunomide (Arava)
- Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine, Sulfazine)