We will look at the association between obesity and rheumatoid arthritis and how the presence of excess weight impacts patient experience and response to disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug therapy. We will also briefly address current thinking surrounding the “obesity paradox.” Lastly, we will explore approaches to weight loss in patients who are overweight or obese and the general benefits of weight loss in this population.
Course Category: Rheumatology Nurse Practice
Drop the Anchor? DMARD Monotherapy for the Treatment of RA
We will explore the current body of evidence addressing the use of DMARD monotherapy, specifically biologic and targeted synthetic small molecule therapies, in patients with RA. What do the guidelines say about when to prescribe biologics or small molecules, and is monotherapy with these medications ever recommended?