What is tocilizumab, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Tocilizumab is an injectable synthetic (man-made) protein that binds to interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the body and blocks the effects of IL-6 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Inflammation is the body's reaction to injury and is a necessary process for the repair of injury. IL-6 …
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What is penicillamine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Penicillamine is classified as a metal binding (chelating) agent. Penicillamine is a genetic disease that causes excessive copper to accumulate in the body. The mechanism of action of penicillamine in rheumatoid arthritis is unknown but it may be related to reduction of collagen formation. (Collagen is a type of …
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Chondromalacia patella facts Patellofemoral syndrome, or chondromalacia patella, can cause knee pain. Chondromalacia patella is the most common cause of chronic knee pain. Chondromalacia patella has also been called patellofemoral syndrome. The pain of chondromalacia patella is aggravated by activity or prolonged sitting with bent knees. Abnormal "tracking" allows the kneecap (patella) to grate over the lower end of the …
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Remicade vs. Humira comparison Remicade (infliximab) and Humira (adalimumab) are both laboratory-synthesized proteins. They are different chemicals on a molecular level, but they are designed to do the same thing: block a specific immune antibody that causes inflammation in a half-dozen different autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis. The side effects common to both Remicade and Humira include: headache, rash, nausea, …
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What is ixekizumab, and how does it work? Ixekizumab is an injectable biologic drug that suppresses the immune system and is used for the treatment of psoriasis. It is an antibody that binds to interleukin 17A (IL-17A), a chemical produced by cells in the body that stimulates immune reactions. Scientists believe that psoriasis is caused by an increase in the …
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What is meclofenamate, and what is it used for? Meclofenamate sodium is indicated for the relief of mild to moderate pain. Meclofenamate sodium is also indicated for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea (menopause) and for the treatment of idiopathic heavy menstrual blood loss. Meclofenamate sodium is also indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of acute and chronic rheumatoid …
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Hypermobility syndrome facts Joints easily move beyond the normal range with joint hypermobility syndrome. The joint hypermobility syndrome is a condition that features joints that easily move beyond the normal range expected for that particular joint. Hypermobile joints tend to be inherited. Symptoms of the joint hypermobility syndrome include pain in the knees, fingers, hips, and elbows. Often, joint hypermobility …
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Knee injury facts Picture of Knee Joint The knee is one of the most common body parts to be injured. Types of common knee injuries include sprains, strains, bursitis, dislocations, fractures, meniscus tears, and overuse injuries. Knee injuries are generally caused by twisting or bending force applied to the knee, or a direct blow, such as from sports, falls, or …
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What is prednisone? How does it work? Prednisone is a drug that belongs to the corticosteroid drug class, and is an anti-inflammatory and immune system suppressant. It's used to treat a variety of diseases and conditions, for example: inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), lupus, asthma, cancers, and several types of arthritis. Common side effects are weight gain, …
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Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) facts Share Your Story Back pain and morning stiffness are symptoms of nr-axSpA. Non-radiographic spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects mainly the joints in the spine. The typical symptoms of nr-axSpA are back pain and morning stiffness. Patients with nr-axSpA do not have abnormalities of the sacroiliac joints on standard X-rays, such …
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