Is there a role for antibiotics in the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis?

Research output: Contribution to journalShort surveypeer-review

27 Scopus citations

Abstract

Despite many advances in the understanding and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, its pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. An infectious aetiology of rheumatoid arthritis has long been postulated but, even though many continue to believe that there is a 'triggering agent for rheumatoid arthritis', none has been identified. Currently, both sulfasalazine and minocycline have been shown to be effective treatments for rheumatoid arthritis and are being used increasingly. In the case of minocycline, it appears that its ability to inhibit metalloproteases is an important characteristic that may account for some or part of its action against rheumatoid arthritis. Whether the antibacterial effects of these drugs or others are important in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis continues to be investigated.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)279-282
Number of pages4
JournalDrugs
Volume57
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1999

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology (medical)

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