Parenteral gold in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

For over 50 years, gold therapy has played an important role in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Since 1932, many clinicians and investigators have confirmed the beneficial effects of the water-soluble gold salts, aurothioglucose and gold sodium thiomalate. Gold therapy is indicated for patients with active disease who are not responsive to conservative therapy. To minimize patient risks, contraindications must be considered, and careful clinical and laboratory monitoring must be performed under close supervision by the physician during therapy. Side effects may include vasomotor reactions, dermatitis, stomatitis, leukopenia, proteinuria, nephrosis, and thrombocytopenia. During therapy, one of six patients may have an adverse reaction requiring suspension or termination of therapy. Of the five tolerating gold, one will not benefit, three may have marked improvement, and one may have a remission. The usual recommended dosage schedule is intramuscular injection of 25 to 50 mg of gold salt at weekly intervals until a total of 1,000 mg has been achieved. At this level, gold injections may be spaced biweekly, triweekly, and then monthly for an indefinite period.