Rheumatism is a chronic, systematic, self-immunised disease that primarily affects the joint, causing pain, swelling and functional impairment. The emergence of biological agents has revolutionized the treatment of RAs, resulting in a significant improvement in the condition of many patients. However, the need for long-term use of biological agents remains the focus of attention for many patients and doctors.
Mechanisms for the role of biological agents
Biological agents are a type of biotechnologically prepared drug that specifically targets the intervention of specific molecules in the immune system to reduce inflammation and immune response. In the treatment of RAs, commonly used biological agents include tumour necrosis (TNF) inhibitors, white cell media-6 (IL-6) inhibitors, B cell inhibitors and T-cell co-stimulant inhibitors. Through different mechanisms, these drugs inhibit the excess activity of the immune system, thus reducing symptoms and the progress of the disease.
The need for long-term use of biological agents
Chronic characteristics of disease: Rheumatism is a chronic disease and there is no cure. Although biological agents can effectively control symptoms and inflammations, they cannot eradicate the disease itself. The long-term use of biological agents may therefore be key to maintaining stable conditions, preventing relapse and protecting joint functions.
Maintaining a state of mitigation: For many patients, biological agents can help them to reach a state of mitigation, i.e., significantly reduced or disappeared. However, the cessation of the use of biological agents may lead to a recurrence of disease and symptoms. Therefore, in order to maintain a state of mitigation, many patients may need long-term use of these drugs.
Individualized treatment programmes: Each patient reacts to biological agents differently, and the severity and pace of the disease vary. Doctors usually develop individualized treatments based on the patient ‘ s specific circumstances. In some cases, doctors may try to gradually reduce the dose or extend the interval to assess whether the patient can sustain the relief while reducing the drug.
Integrated management strategy
In order to optimize the use of biological agents, patients should adopt an integrated management strategy:
Regular follow-up and monitoring: Patients should maintain regular follow-up reviews to monitor disease activities, drug effects and side effects.
Lifestyle adjustments: Healthy lifestyles can be assisted by medication, including balanced diet, moderate exercise and abdication of alcohol. Good living habits help to improve the functioning of the immune system and the overall state of health.
Psychological support and education: RA patients often face psychological stress from chronic disease management. Psychological support and patient education can help patients to better understand the disease and improve the dependence and quality of life of treatment.
Biological agents play an important role in the treatment of rheumatism and provide patients with effective means of symptoms control and case management. However, the long-term use of biological agents depends on a number of factors, including the severity of the disease, patient response to drugs and individual lifestyles. In the course of treatment, patients should be regularly followed up, monitored and evaluated, and, through integrated management and a positive lifestyle, RA patients can better control their condition and improve their quality of life.
Rheumatism arthritis
