The "gold standard" agent for treatment of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis is ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Methotrexate is the "gold standard" agent for the treatment of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis.The newer biologic agents etanercept and infliximab have been shown to also be highly effective relative to methotrexate.Penicillamine also is used in the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis; however,both antimalarials and penicillamine are associated with significant toxicity,which limits their use.The combination of methotrexate,hydrochloroquine,and sulfasalazine is among the most popular regimens.

The "Gold Standard" Agent for Treatment of Patients with Early