What are treatment options for reactive arthritis?
For the infection, antibiotic treatment for the particular bacteria causing the infection will be prescribed. Many times the other symptoms will disappear on their own. Sometimes symptoms will linger and become severe enough that medical intervention may be required. Different types of medications currently available for the management of other symptoms associated with reactive arthritis include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are usually the initial treatment option for this condition as there are over-the-counter as well as prescription forms available.
- Corticosteroids - often delivered as an injection to the affected joint, can be helpful in quickly reducing inflammation.
Fortunately, most patients with reactive arthritis, do NOT have a chronic course, however, if your arthritis symptoms do become chronic (lasts for more than 3 months) there are other arthritis treatments to consider to manage your symptoms and prevent permanent joint damage:
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) - reserved for severe cases of reactive arthritis, but there is limited evidence that these medications actually improve the symptoms of reactive arthritis. Examples include:
- methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall, Otrexup, Rasuvo)
- sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), which is more effective for reactive arthritis caused by gastrointestinal illness
*If you are taking methotrexate, make sure you are also taking a folic acid supplement like MTX Advanced Support: https://theralogix.com/products/mtx-support-folic-acid-b12-supplement
- Biologic response modifiers (biologic agents) - another option when traditional medications fail and include:
- adalimumab (Humira)
- etanercept (Enbrel)
What preventative options are there for reactive arthritis?
Unlike many other arthritic conditions, reactive arthritis can actually be prevented. Limiting exposure to bacterial infections is key for the prevention of this type of arthritis. Making sure foods are properly prepared will prevent foodborne infections. Practicing safe sex can be used to prevent bacterial infections that may cause reactive arthritis as well.
Reactive arthritis is a less common form of arthritis whose cause is not completely understood, as not all bacterial infections may cause this arthritis. Research does confirm that prompt diagnosis and treatment of the bacterial infection provides the best chance of preventing long-lasting pain and symptoms. TeleMed2U providers are always available to help with the accurate diagnosis of this arthritis and also help with the management of lingering symptoms if they occur.
