Abstract
The Role of Biologic Agents in the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Current Trends and Future Directions
Author(s): Sarah Deson*Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the joints and is associated with significant morbidity and disability. The advent of biologic agents, including tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, interleukin-6 inhibitors, and Janus kinase inhibitors, has revolutionized the treatment landscape for RA. These agents target specific immune pathways involved in the pathogenesis of the disease, offering superior efficacy compared to traditional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Despite their effectiveness, the use of biologics is associated with concerns such as cost, side effects, and long-term safety. This review aims to evaluate the current role of biologic agents in RA management, discuss emerging biologics, and highlight challenges in their use, such as treatment adherence and the development of drug resistance. Future research is focused on personalized medicine, developing biologics with fewer side effects, and exploring combination therapies for improved outcomes.