Question

Mr. Jones is a retired farmer who has had acute rheumatoid arthritis for the last 20 years. He was taking auranofin (Ridaura) 6mg orally daily with some improvement in symptoms but has been prescribed a new medication, etanercept (Enbrel) 50 mg SC/SQ weekly, which the primary health care provider hopes will improve his condition.

a. Why would the primary care provider change Mr. Jones' medications?

b. What new patient teaching needs to occur for Mr. Jones to correctly follow the new medication regimen?

Answer 1

Answer: The primary care provided change Mr. Jones' medication because the Ridaura drug is the primary base line drug given in the case of arthritis. It shows it affects after 3 months. Long term use of this medication have adverse effects. The enbrel is FDA approved drug for rheumatoid arthritis.

The patient should take medication on time and should not miss the dose. The dose should not be doubled if missed. There should be regular monitoring of the liver function of the patient as this drug may effect the liver performance. The patient should contain physician as soon as he notice the side effects such as increased fatigue, hair loss etc.