Which class of medication is known to improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis but does not alter long-term disability risk?

The class of medication that is known to improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis but does not alter long-term disability risk is NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). NSAIDs are commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis but do not modify the disease course. Their primary function is symptomatic relief, rather than altering the underlying disease process.

While these medications can provide significant short-term improvements in joint pain and stiffness, they do not prevent the progression of the disease or reduce the risk of joint damage and disability over time. In contrast, other classes of medications like DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) and biologics have been shown to alter the course of rheumatoid arthritis and can reduce long-term disability risk. Corticosteroids may provide similar symptomatic relief alongside some disease-modifying effects, but their long-term use is also not free from risks related to morbidity and complications.

This distinction underscores the role of NSAIDs as a key tool in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis while clarifying that they do not impact the long-term outcomes related to joint health and disability.