Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has severe and lasting effects on quality of life. This review (1) describes the disease progression, disability, and joint destruction that seriously alter a patient's quality of life, and (2) explains how the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), anakinra, retards the progress of disease, thereby improving outcomes. Relevant articles were reviewed with a focus on RA, anakinra, and functional and quality-of-life outcomes. In randomized, controlled trials, the IL-1Ra anakinra provided meaningful benefits for patients with active RA, such as decreased signs and symptoms of disease, slower radiographic disease progression, reduced disability, and improved health-related quality of life. The biologic agent, anakinra, provides to patients with RA a valuable treatment option that has a positive impact on both function and quality of life.