Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)
What is the main goal of DMARD therapy in rheumatoid arthritis?
To slow joint degeneration and disease progression.
What is the therapeutic use of colchicine?
To abort acute gout attacks.
What is the pharmacologic action of Belimumab (Benlysta)?
Disrupts B-lymphocyte activation by interfering with BLyS protein.
Name one SNRI used to treat fibromyalgia.
Duloxetine or Milnacipran.
Raloxifene (Evista) works as an agonist on bone tissue and antagonist on which two tissues?
Breast and endometrial tissue.
What major adverse effect can occur from immunomodulator DMARDs such as methotrexate?
Increased risk of infection or bone marrow suppression.
What lab abnormality can colchicine cause?
Thrombocytopenia or rhabdomyolysis.
What condition is Belimumab used to treat?
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
What GABA analogue is used for fibromyalgia?
Pregabalin (Lyrica).
What is a major complication of Raloxifene?
Pulmonary embolism or DVT.
Methotrexate is contraindicated during what condition?
Pregnancy or lactation.
Allopurinol (Zyloprim) works by inhibiting the production of this substance.
Uric acid.
What mood-related complication may occur with Belimumab?
Depression or insomnia.
SNRIs act by restoring the balance of which two neurotransmitters?
Serotonin and norepinephrine.
Alendronate (Fosamax) decreases bone resorption by inhibiting which type of cells?
Osteoclasts
Which DMARD may cause retinal damage?
Antimalarial agents (e.g., hydroxychloroquine).
Name one major complication of allopurinol therapy.
Renal calculi or renal injury.
Why should Belimumab not be used in breastfeeding?
It may increase infection risk and harm infants.
What are two common complications of GABA?
Weight gain and dizziness or fatigue.
What is an important administration instruction for bisphosphonates like alendronate?
Take with full glass of water and remain upright for 30 min.
What must be avoided when discontinuing glucocorticoids used with DMARD therapy?
Abrupt withdrawal—can cause adrenal crisis.
Colchicine should be used cautiously in which population?
Older adults with renal, hepatic, or blood disorders.
Belimumab should be used cautiously in patients with what kind of underlying disorders?
Cardiac disease, depression, or infections.
SNRIs are contraindicated in patients taking what type of antidepressant?
MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors).
Calcitonin-salmon should not be used in patients with allergies to what?
Fish proteins.