Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are a class of drugs indicated for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders such as scleroderma, vasculitis, spondyloarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and some types of cancers. Patients who are treated with DMARDs are at risk for developing potentially life-threatening complications, such as serious infections, cardiovascular issues, liver or hematological toxicity, or the reactivation of latent tuberculosis or hepatitis. This session will discuss recommendations to reduce risks by pre-screening patients with baseline laboratory testing prior to the initiation of a DMARD medication and monitoring throughout the course of therapy.

Learning Outcomes:

At the conclusion of this session, attendees will be able to identify necessary pre-screening lab testing and the importance of reviewing lab results to prevent complications associated with DMARD therapy.