Drugs that modify the rheumatic disease process

All the drugs listed in this section should be initiated only on the advice of a Consultant Rheumatologist. Regular monitoring is required for all drugs in this section, which may include urine testing, full blood counts, liver enzymes and blood pressure monitoring.  British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) guidance is generally followed; any variation in therapy will be specified on the Department of Rheumatology home page.

For advice on monitoring refer to Universal requirements for monitoring of conventional DMARDS in primary care.

For GP and patient advice on individual drugs and combination therapy, which is now the norm, refer to Department of Rheumatology home page and to product information (SPC).