Are glucocorticoids DMARDs?

Disease modifying a n tir heu ma tic drugs (DMARDs) are drugs used in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to control the disease and to limit joint damage and improve long-term outcome. The last decade evidence has accumulated that suggests that low dosages of glucocorticoids are indeed able to control the disease and limit the destruction. This role is especially present in early disease and in combination with other drugs. The evidence is carefully evaluated and discussed. The ultimate conclusion is that indeed glucocorticoids are DMARDs and are especially useful in early RA. © 2006 New York Academy of Sciences.