Evidence Needed for Efficacy of Antidepressant Medications Among Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) experience pain from inflammation, joint destruction, and neuropathy. Antidepressants may play a role among patients with RA and depression, fibromyalgia, or neuropathy to achieve desired outcomes. This commentary evaluated evidence for medications individually and identified important variables for future research. While we await the results of well-designed studies, a trial of duloxetine or milnacipran may be considered for patients with remnant pain and RA remission. Research is needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants in patients with RA and associated comorbid conditions.

Automated summary

Antidepressants may have a role in treating patients with RA and associated conditions, but further research is needed to assess their efficacy and safety.