Best Medical Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis in Pakistan (2025)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting over 1 million Pakistanis. Many of the pains and symptoms of RA can be managed with timely and proper diagnosis and treatment. With rising RA cases in major cities, it’s essential to know what treatments are available locally. Here we have covered all options for medical treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in Pakistan. This guide will teach you the professional treatment options and natural home remedies to help with joint pain. Ready to get the details on all the latest RA medications, and highlights leading arthritis centers in Pakistan? Let’s get started.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

If you’re experiencing any forms of joint pain, it’s best to look out for any symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. This is because getting diagnosed early is best for slowing down disease progression, preventing permanent joint damage, and restoring your health back to normal.

Common Early Signs of RA

• Morning Stiffness: A persistent stiffness that lasts for several hours after waking up is one of the most common early symptoms.

• Swollen Knuckles and Joints: Symmetric joint swelling, especially in the hands and feet, is a hallmark of RA.

• Persistent Joint Pain: If you experience joint pain or discomfort, especially during flare-ups, it’s important to consult with a specialist.

When To See A Doctor

• Extended Duration of Symptoms: If your symptoms, such as morning stiffness or joint pain, persist for more than 6 weeks, it is advisable to seek medical advice immediately.

• Misdiagnosis Risks: Due to the lack of awareness and medical incompetency of less-trained doctors, RA patients in Pakistan are misdiagnosed initially, underscoring the importance of early specialist care.

Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatments Available in Pakistan

Patients can choose from one of the multiple types of medical treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in Pakistan. Through proper treatment, you can treat joint pain and swelling, slow down disease progression, and improve your quality of life by restoring mobility and bodily function.

1) Medical Treatments

The most common way of dealing with RA symptoms and pain is medication. Note that these medications are typically gotten after a doctor’s prescription. Please do not try to self-diagnose and self-medicate. Visit a hospital if you feel any symptoms of overdose.

DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs): 

• Methotrexate and Leflunomide are medically tested to be safe and effective medicines for rheumatic arthritis. Branded medicines are pretty expensive, but these medicines are cheap at local Pakistani pharmacies.

• Biologics: If normal medicines show little effect on RA patients, they can try Biosimilars such as Etanercept for treatment. While these imported medicines are comparatively more expensive, local marts do offer them.

NSAIDs:

• Diclofenac and Celecoxib are common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for joint pain and inflammation.

2) Surgical Options

In severe cases of RA, patients can look for joint replacement surgeries. Many reputable Pakistani hospitals do offer joint surgeries like Aga Khan Hospital in Karachi. Surgery is considered when medical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief.

3) Home Remedies

Aside from conventional medication, you can try some home remedies for rheumatoid arthritis. These remedies are not a cure - rather they are to be used as natural pain relief for joint pain. Patients can try turmeric, ginger, and warm olive oil massages on affected areas to relieve pain. To optimize your lifestyle for best joint health, we have a complete guide for relieving joint pain naturally.

(Disclaimer: Always use natural remedies on the side with your prescribed treatment. Do not replace your medication or surgeries with natural alternatives. Consult your doctor before performing any self-cures.)

Top Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Centers in Pakistan

Choosing the right medical center can significantly impact your RA management. Below are some of the top arthritis centers across Pakistan:

Aga Khan Hospital’s Rheumatology Centre, Karachi:

One of Pakistan’s most advanced hospitals - the Aga Khan Hospital’s Rheumatology Centre is a great choice for rheumatoid arthritis care.

Rheumatology Department, Shifa International, Islamabad:

Known for its advanced facilities and biological therapies, more information is available at www.shifa.com.pk.

Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi:

Offers affordable DMARDs and comprehensive care for RA patients. Visit www.lnh.edu.pk for details.

Shalamar Hospital’s Rheumatology Specialty, Lahore:

One of Lahore’s most famous hospitals, it offers an excellent Rheumatology Centre for arthritis treatment.

These centers not only provide excellent care but often prescribe medications that you can readily purchase from certified pharmacies like meripharmacy. Consulting a proper doctor before starting any medications is best for your physical health and peace of mind.

Where to Buy Medicine for Rheumatoid Arthritis in Pakistan

Here all the medication and drugs for rheumatoid arthritis you need available in Pakistani stores.

Prescription-Based Medications

• Methotrexate: Often considered the first-line RA drug in Pakistan, Methotrexate is widely prescribed by doctors. For only PKR 800, you can buy Methotrexate tablets from meripharmacy,

• Leflunomide: Meripharmacy also offers leflunomide-based Cara tablets for PKR 1000 per pack.

Patients who are unable to afford these costly medicines can contact the Arthritis Care Foundation Pakistan for cheap and subsidized rheumatoid arthritis medication and treatment.

Over The Counter Supplements

These over-the-counter vitamins and supplements help maintain joint health and lower the risk of developing RA in healthy patients.

• Glucosamine: Widely recognized for its benefits in supporting joint health, glucosamine supplements are a popular choice among RA patients and healthy people looking to strengthen their joints.

• Omega-3 Capsules: Healthy people can also take omega-3 capsules to support bone and joint health.

These medications and supplements not only target inflammation and pain but also play a vital role in long-term joint care.

Conclusion

Now you know that while arthritis sounds very intimidating - it is not the end of the world. Proper medical treatment for rheumatoid arthritis can slow down the worsening of the disease and greatly improve a patient’s quality of life. Instead of taking any steps by yourself, always consult a licensed doctor for your best health. Only purchase your medicines from licensed, reputable pharmacies to avoid fake products.