Abstract

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS THERAPY: STATINS AS FOREFRONT CHOICE IN PREVENTION OF ATHEROSCLEROTIC RISK

Athira Jith, Kameswaran R.* and Sambathkumar R.

ABSTRACT

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease featured by inflammation and deterioration of the joints, which causes a loss of functionality, reduces quality of life and finally results in morbidity and mortality. The primary goal of the therapy is to reduce pain and inflammation, control joint damage and disability, maintain and improve physical function and quality of life. Statins appears to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may benefit patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients are at an increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease. In order to reduce this risk, statins are used in clinical practice in addition to biologics. This review is aimed at providing a systematic analysis of the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) with respect to statin therapy, with a particular focus on the most relevant studies published over the last few years.

Keywords: Rheumatoid Arthritis, Autoimmune Disease, Statin.