Gold compounds as a treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis have been in use since the beginning of 1900s. Even though they are no more popular presently among rheumatologists who address rheumatoid arthritis, they are yet considered as a treatment of last resort. Gold compounds may be dispensed as injections intramuscularly in a physician's facility or as capsules taken under prescription only. The most frequently employed gold compounds in the intervention of rheumatoid arthritis are Auranofin (trade name Ridaura) and gold sodium thiomalate (Aurolate or Myochrysine). The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Auranofin in May 1985.

Mechanism of Action

Auranofin as a form of gold belongs to the class of drugs called DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs) for the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Even if gold compounds were the most favored medicinal therapy for this condition till the 1990s, they are no more regularly used. Other treatment alternatives, for instance methotrexate sodium, anti-malarial medications and TNF (tumor necrosis factor) inhibitors are normally chosen due to their lower threat of toxicity.

Ridaura with the generic equivalent Auranofin is only employed when other medicines have been unsuccessful to offer adequate respite. How this oral medication functions in the management of rheumatoid arthritis is not known and interpreted very well; one hypothesis is that Auranofin prevents the discharge of a molecule that induces inflammation in the joints. It is capable of blocking or retarding the destruction of the bone and cartilage around the joint as well as deformities of the joints.

Drug Indications

Ridaura (Auranofin) is indicated in the intervention of active, advancing or destructive kinds of inflammatory arthritis, for example rheumatoid arthritis when other treatments were unable to control them. The medication has some off-label applications that include Felty's Syndrome (an uncommon disorder that brings together rheumatoid arthritis, a puffed up spleen, and reduced amount of white blood cells), psoriatic arthritis (a type of rheumatoid arthritis generally involving fingers and toes and related to psoriasis) and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (a type of rheumatoid arthritis that involves children; big joints become swollen and bone development may be slowed down).

Dosage & Administration

The most recommended adult dosage of Auranofin is 3 mg capsules taken two times on a daily basis. Take this prescription drug as directed by your doctor. Mindfully go through the patient package insert supplied with the product. Pose any queries to your physician regarding this medication. The treatment is time-consuming and may take 3 to 4 months of time period before the full effects of this medicine become noticeable.

Side Effects

The most frequent adverse effect of Ridaura (Auranofin) is looseness of the bowels or diarrhea. One more side effect is reddened skin. A rubbing sensation can be an early sign of warning for a skin side effect, for example a rash. Ridaura can induce a metal tasting and mouth infections, although less regularly than injectable forms. Since gold salts can cause life-threatening kidney and bone marrow troubles, all affected persons need close supervision by a doctor with the examination of blood and urine at regular intervals.