Gold salts

(Auranofin and sodium aurothiomalate)

About gold salts

Gold salts can be used to relieve pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. There are two gold salt preparations that can be used - auranofin which is taken as a tablet and sodium aurothiomalate which is injected into a muscle.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition caused by the body's own immune system attacking itself. Gold salts work by suppressing the over-reaction of the immune system, although the exact way in which they do this is not fully understood.

Gold salts help relieve the symptoms and slow down the progress of rheumatoid arthritis; they will not cure the disease.

Before taking gold salts

Before taking gold salts make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver, kidney or breathing problems.
• If you have ever suffered from a blood disorder, porphyria (a rare type of blood disorder), or bone marrow depression.
• If you suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• If you suffer from eczema, flaky dermatitis, urticaria (a raised red itchy rash) or other similar skin condition.
• If you suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colitis or a similar bowel problem.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take gold salts

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Take auranofin tablets with or immediately after food.
• Try to take auranofin at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be monitored. You will have regular blood tests while taking this medicine.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first. Gold salts may need to be taken for four to six months before you feel the full benefit.
• Gold salts may cause skin exposed to sunlight to become discoloured. Avoid sitting in the sun and do not use sunbeds while you are taking this medicine.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with gold salts.

Can gold salts cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store gold salts

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines