To send this page to a family member or friend, simply fill out the form below. All fields are required.  
  From:
  Name
E-mail
  To:
  Name
E-mail
Submit
Genentech and Biogen Idec are not responsible for the content entered here. We will not use your information for any purpose other than sending an e-mail to the address you have requested. To learn more about our use of your information, please read our Privacy Policy.

System Error


We're sorry, but a system error has occurred.

Thank You

Thank you for visiting www.RISEsupport.com.

The page you requested has been sent to .

Glossary


anti-TNFs (or TNF inhibitors)
A class of biologic DMARDs that targets TNF, one of the chemical messengers involved in RA (eg, adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab).

B-cell
A type of white blood cell that is made in the bone marrow, where it matures through different stages into a plasma cell. Plasma cells are involved in fighting infections by producing antibodies that bring about an immune response. Mature B-cells are found within the blood, lymph, and connective tissue.

targeted B-cell therapy
A treatment that selectively reduces the number of specific B-cells in the blood (eg, rituximab).

biologic
A treatment made from proteins produced in living cells.

disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
A category of drugs used in RA to slow down the development of the disease (eg, methotrexate, leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine sulfate).

flare
A term used to describe times when RA is at its worst.

inflammation
The reaction of body tissues to injury such as irritation in the lining of the joints. Inflammation is characterized by pain, heat, redness, swelling, and loss of function.

rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
A chronic disease that occurs when the immune system attacks the body's joints and other tissues in the body.

rheumatologist
A physician who pursues additional training after medical school and specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of arthritis and other rheumatic disorders.

Rituxan® (rituximab)
A prescription medicine for adults with moderate to severe RA who have not been helped enough by other treatments. It is used along with another medicine called methotrexate to reduce pain and symptoms, prevent further joint damage, and improve the ability to perform daily activities. Individual results may vary. People with serious infections should not receive Rituxan. Common side effects include infections and infusion reactions. For more information, visit www.Rituxan.com/RA.

side effect
An unwanted and potentially harmful effect of a drug.

symptom
A sign or an indication of a disorder or disease, especially when experienced by an individual as a change from normal function, sensation, or appearance.

tumor necrosis factor (TNF)
A chemical messenger of the immune system that is involved in RA.

white blood cell
A cell of the immune system that circulates mainly in the blood and lymph nodes and participates in reactions to invading microorganisms or foreign particles.