Potential side effects of methotrexate can worry rheumatoid arthritis patients. But there may be good news -- long-term treatment with the drug appears safe, according to study results published in the July 2009 issue of the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. That conclusion is based on pooled data from 88 studies that involved patients treated with methotrexate for at least 2 years.

Many patients taking methotrexate experience side effects but usually they are mild. Discontinuation rates of methotrexate were less than sulfasalazine, gold, and penicillamine -- but more than plaquenil. While 13% of patients experienced elevated liver enzymes -- only 3.7% had to stop using methotrexate due to liver toxicity.

Methotrexate was not tied to an increased risk of infections. Two of the studies assessed the relationship of methotrexate to cardiovascular disease while being treated. One concluded there was no increased risk of cardiovascular disease -- while the other suggested there may even be a reduced cardiovascular risk while taking methotrexate.

Related Resources:

• Methotrexate - 10 Things You Should Know
• Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis
• The Facts of Methotrexate
• Is Methotrexate Injection Better Than Oral Methotrexate?
• Second Course of Methotrexate May Be Effective After First Course Fails

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A decision has been made on the status of Darvocet -- a pain medication used by arthritis patients and others who live with chronic pain. The FDA has decided to allow propoxyphene-containing products like Darvon and Darvocet to stay on the market. The regulatory agency is requiring manufacturers to strengthen their label though -- including a boxed warning and a medication guide to be given to patients that will emphasize the potential for fatal overdose and the importance of using propoxyphene-containing drugs as directed.

The FDA is also requiring a safety study that will assess the effects of propoxyphene on the heart when taken at higher than recommended doses. The FDA is leaving the door open to take further action, if necessary, based on the results of that study and other data. The FDA plans to work with several groups to study how often elderly patients are prescribed propoxyphene rather than other pain medications. They will also further evaluate safety profiles of propoxyphene compared to other pain medications.

For now, the FDA has concluded the benefits of pain relief, when taken at recommended doses, outweigh the risks. The FDA also denied a petition from Public Citizen that requested a phased withdrawal of propoxyphene. The opioid drug has been marketed for over 50 years and as it stands now -- it's staying. If you depend on the drug to manage your pain and if you were concerned about the FDA's decision, this news will come as a relief. Share your comments.

Related Resources:

• Darvocet - 10 Things You Should Know
• The Facts of Analgesics (Painkillers)
• Is Darvocet Really Dangerous?
• FDA Advisory Panel Narrowly Recommended Darvocet Ban

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Treatment with TNF blockers has been associated with an increased risk of developing tuberculosis (TB) -- mostly due to reactivation of a latent TB infection. TNF blockers are a treatment option for inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

A French study, published in the July 2009 issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism, looked at possible differences among three TNF blockers (Enbrel, Remicade, and Humira) in terms of TB risk. Researchers set up a national registry in France to find all cases of TB that occurred over a 3-year period among patients given a TNF blocker for any indication. They found 69 cases of TB and assessed their history before and after being given the TNF blocker.

Researchers found that the risk of TB was higher among patients receiving monoclonal TNF blockers (Remicade and Humira) compared to those receiving a soluble TNF blocker (Enbrel). The risk was higher during the first year of treatment also -- suggestive of reactivation of latent TB. Two-thirds of the patients who developed TB had negative skin tests initially. Though the mechanism was not fully understood by researchers, they felt the way specific T helper cells and T regulatory cells (immune cells) are affected by the two types of TNF blockers may explain the difference in risk of TB.

Related Resources:

• TNF-alpha Blockers - What You Need to Know
• What Is a Monoclonal Antibody?
• The Facts of Enbrel
• The Facts of Remicade
• The Facts of Humira

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Velcro shoes are easy to put on and take off. That's important for people who have physical limitations that make it hard to bend or reach their feet. People with arthritis look for shoes that are easy to manage and supportive for their feet -- without completely forgoing style.

Velcro shoes are no longer just ugly orthopedic shoes. There are several shoemakers that make velcro shoes that look sporty -- a perfect match for casual attire. You will never need another pair of shoe strings again! I've had several pairs of velcro shoes over the years. Consider some of your options in Velcro Shoes for Women.

Related Resources:

• What Is a Sock Aid?
• Arthritis Bra - Women's Specialty Clothing
• Dressing Aids for Arthritis Patients
• Arthritis Gloves Reduce Hand Pain and Swelling

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