Antibiotics wipe out the trigger for RA, but one is left with the inflammatory arthritis. NSAIDs (like Advil) made it worse for me (and my GI tract), maybe because they are rather puny anti-inflammatory meds for RA. The corticosteroids had little or no effect. Methotrexate was the last try and worked because it suppressed my immune system from attacking me. My rheumatologist would switch me to a new med as soon as he found out the current was wasn't working or I had an adverse effect. The treatment for RA has evolved since I had it. PCPs don't usually have much background in RA; specialists are best. I think doctors start with the more passive treatment because some cases of RA inflammation fade away after a few months (not in my case). If you don't mind incredibly boring reading NIH and ResearchGate have good papers. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/reactive-arthritis/treatment/#:~:text=When%20you%20first%20start%20getting,movement%20in%20your%20affected%20joints.