Should Azulfidine be taken for edema in the knees?
Patient: I ve been diagnosed with RA due to a pretty high RA factor but have no pain and, as yet, no joint deformity other than some osteo in my hands. I was originally diagnosed with CPPD, have recurring swelling in knees, a high nucleated cell count but now, after two years, no intracellular calcium crystals. Rheumatologist, a rather doddery one, wants me to start on Azulfadine after 5 months on meloxicam haven t helped keep fluid off knees. I m reluctant to take a heavy duty drug when I have no pain, no symmetrical joint derformity, no RA in xrays, and no pain. Do you think I ought to at least try Azulfadine? Doctor: Hi,  It is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Also, used to treat ulcerative colitis etc.  Many drugs are there for rheumatoid arthritis. These drugs are useful to treat the disease under control.  Treatment depends upon the serum RA factor, anti-CCP levels.  Please consult your rheumatologist he may advice right dosage of the drug.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  Regards, Dr. Penchila Prasad Kandikattu,  Internal Medicine Specialist