When looking into a new medication, it's natural to have questions. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions regarding TNF blockers.

What can TNF blockers do for people with RA?
TNF blockers can relieve the symptoms of moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA), slow the progress of joint damage, and improve their ability to do their daily activities.

How quickly do TNF blockers work?
The effects of TNF blockers on RA can sometimes be seen as early as two weeks after starting the medication. It may take up to three months to see the full effects.

What side effects are possible?
Some people taking TNF blockers have reported side effects. Not everyone who uses TNF blockers will develop the side effects listed below. However, it is important to be aware of possible side effects and what to do if they develop. Side effects of TNF blockers include:

Serious side effects:
• Allergic reactions: Some people are allergic to TNF blockers, and develop a severe skin rash, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat while taking these medications. If this occurs, get medical attention immediately.
• Infection: Rarely, people taking TNF blockers have developed serious infections such as tuberculosis (TB), bacterial infections, or fungal infections. In some cases, these infections were fatal. For this reason, people with active infections should not use TNF blockers, and people who develop an infection while taking TNF blockers should be closely monitored by their doctor. If you develop signs of infection (such as fever, swelling, pus, fatigue, or a burning feeling when urinating), contact your doctor immediately.
• Nervous system problems: Rarely, TNF blockers may cause nervous system problems, including tingling, numbness, weakness, seizures, or vision problems. If you notice these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
• Cancers: Very rarely, some types of cancer (such as lymphoma, which affects the lymph system) have occurred in people taking TNF blockers. Having severe RA for a long period of time can also increase the risk of this type of cancer. If you are concerned about your risk of cancer, contact your doctor.
• Lupus-like symptoms: Some people taking TNF blockers develop symptoms similar to the medical condition lupus (such as chest pain, sun-sensitive skin rash on cheeks or arms, shortness of breath, or joint pain). If you notice these symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Common side effects:
• Injection site reactions: You may develop pain, swelling, itching, redness, or hardness at the place where the medication was injected. If this occurs, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
• Other symptoms: Some people experience nausea, fatigue, headache, back pain, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms while using TNF blockers. Contact your doctor if these symptoms become bothersome.

The side effects listed above have been reported by some people using TNF blockers. However, not everyone who uses TNF blockers will experience these side effects.

When should I contact my doctor?
Contact your doctor if you notice signs of a serious side effect (as described above), if you aren't sure whether the medication is working for you, or if you have any questions or concerns about the medication.

Do TNF blockers help with osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a different form of arthritis with different causes and effects on the body. TNF blockers have not been studied for osteoarthritis, and are not recommended for this condition. TNF blockers can be used for certain other forms of arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Talk to your doctor about which TNF blocker is right for your arthritis.