Biologics for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Why It Is Used
Biologics are used to treat moderate to severe JIA symptoms and to prevent joint damage, particularly in people who have had side effects or poor results from methotrexate treatment.
Biologics are usually used after nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Reference NSAIDs Opens New Window), corticosteroids, and methotrexate have been tried. A biologic is often used at the same time as these other medicines, especially to treat Reference polyarticular JIA Opens New Window and Reference extended oligoarticular JIA Opens New Window.Reference 1
Biologics may also be tried when eye inflammation has not improved after trying other drugs such as corticosteroids and mydriatics.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: June 5, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Reference John Pope, MD - Pediatrics |
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