Gold Antirheumatic Agents, also known as gold salts, refer to a group of medications that are used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune disorders. These agents contain compounds of gold, such as gold sodium thiomalate, auranofin, and gold sodium thiosulfate, which are administered either orally or via injection.
The mechanism of gold antirheumatic agents is not yet fully understood. However, they are believed to exert their therapeutic effects by modifying the immune response, reducing inflammation, and slowing down the progression of joint damage in patients with RA. These agents act by inhibiting various immune cells and cytokines involved in the inflammatory process, ultimately alleviating symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Gold antirheumatic agents are typically prescribed when other conventional treatments, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), have failed to provide adequate symptom relief. However, their use has declined in recent years due to the introduction of newer and more targeted biologic therapies.
Like any medication, gold antirheumatic agents may have side effects. Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, skin rashes, mouth sores, and potential kidney or liver damage. Periodic blood tests and close monitoring by healthcare professionals are necessary to detect and manage potential toxicities.
In conclusion, gold antirheumatic agents are a group of medications commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders. Despite their declining use, they remain a valuable treatment option for RA patients who have not responded to other therapies.
