People with Rheumatoid Arthritis have a higher incidence of Diabetes than the general population. A study was recently conducted to see if any of the medications commonly used by patients who have Rheumatoid Arthritis, were helpful in lowering blood glucose (sugar) levels.

The study found that two common medications had a significant benefit in reducing the risk of diabetes: hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) a disease modifying medication taken as a tablet, and the biologic medication abatacept (Orencia). However, it has been found that the steroid medication prednisone can increase the risk of diabetes and raise blood glucose levels.

Many people with Diabetes also take cholesterol lowering medications, referred to as “statins”.  These medications can also raise blood glucose levels, however their benefit reducing heart disease is still felt to outweigh this risk.

For more information on Diabetes and Rheumatoid Arthritis, speak to your healthcare provider.

Our pharmacist, Carolyn Whiskin, recently returned from The American College of Rheumatology Conference, the largest international meeting held for rheumatology. Over 15,000 health professionals from around the world specializing in research and the care of people with arthritis were in attendance. Today’s blog post is one several to come with information Carolyn learned at the Conference.

We often hear of the many great impacts maintaining a health weight can have on our health. Losing weight has always been known as a benefit for our joints, especially people with osteoarthritis. At the recent American College of Rheumatology Conference, a study was presented looking at the impact of weight loss on rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease.

It was found that for people who have a BMI (body mass index) over 25, that a weight loss of 5 kg resulted in a 42% improvement in their level of overall disease activity compared to an improvement of only 19% in those who did not lose weight. Both groups were on similar treatments. Even a 1kg loss of body weight showed improvement in lowering disease activity as excess fat is known to produce several inflammatory chemicals in the body.

Our pharmacist, Carolyn Whiskin, recently returned from The American College of Rheumatology Conference, the largest international meeting held for rheumatology. Over 15,000 health professionals from around the world specializing in research and the care of people with arthritis were in attendance. Today’s blog post is one several to come with information Carolyn learned at the Conference.

We’re happy to share information from our Pharmacy Specialists that we know our patients will benefit from in this series called “Pharmacy Corner.” Here’s the first edition from Carolyn Whiskin, RPh, BScPhm.

Excess inflammation is an aspect of many autoimmune conditions.  There are many non-prescription products that can be very successful in reducing inflammation without causing stomach irritation or elevated blood pressure, which are known adverse effects from traditional anti-inflammatories.

Omega-3 Fish oil has been well researched to reduce inflammation while providing nourishment to the skin, brain and blood vessels.  Omega-3 fish oil contains two active ingredients; EPA and DHA.  A high EPA content is needed to reduce inflammation. The total amount of EPA and DHA taken daily should be 2000-3000mg.  Doses above 3000mg can increase blood thinning. We are happy to provide information on the many natural options for decreasing inflammation.

As flu season is upon is, it is a great time to think about infection prevention. The annual flu shot is highly recommended to all patients on biologic therapy. It is not a live vaccine and therefore is safe to be given while on treatment. The ideal time for maximum vaccine effectiveness is to receive your flu shot between your biologic doses, or for those who receive an infusion every eight weeks, two weeks prior to your next dose. If you have not already received your pneumonia vaccine, this is also highly suggested and can be given while on biologic treatment. Prevnar 13 is given first, followed by Pneumovax eight weeks or more later. This will offer several years of protection against pneumonia. The shingles vaccine (Zostavax) is now available through public health at your family physician’s office for Ontario residents age 65-70. Those turning 71 anytime in 2016 can have their vaccine at no charge until the end of December 2016. As this is a live vaccine, be sure to check on the best timing to have this administered in regards to biologic/immunosuppressive treatment.

Regular hand washing is the best defence against infection. Be sure to wash regularly, especially after being in public places and always before eating. We encourage all patients to wash their hands when entering our infusion clinics and before giving a self-injection at home.

We have prepared an information sheet on infection prevention which is available at all our clinics. Please ask your local staff for a copy.

Please don’t hesitate to ask our pharmacists for more information on vaccination or maintaining your health while using biologic therapy.

Are you missing out on one of the most effective treatments for joint pain and arthritis?

Physical activity plays a key role in managing arthritis symptoms.

Take the first step to a stronger, healthier you.
Order your free Physical Activity and Arthritis booklet today from www.arthritis.ca or 1-800-321-1433

TCRA Hamilton April 2016

Bring family and friends out on February 20th from 10pm – 12pm to Splitsville Hamilton for a fun night of bowling. Minimum $20 donation will go towards Crohn’s and colitis Canada. Put on your bowling shoes to help strike out Crohn’s and Colitis!
Details below…