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Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common chronic inflammatory joint disease. To overcome joint inflammation and eventually induce disease remission, the physician must often use drugs that are more and more toxic. Indications, method of administration, and common adverse effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, local steroid injections, second-line agents, and steroids are reviewed. The author briefly discusses a new therapeutic concept and emphasizes the importance of patient education and early referral to an interdisciplinary rehabilitation team.