Comprehensive Nursing Pharmacology Q 7


A client with an acute exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis is admitted to the hospital for treatment. Which drug, used to treat clients with rheumatoid arthritis, has both an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effect?
  
     A. Gold sodium thiomalate (Myochrysine)
     B. Azathioprine (Imuran)
     C. Prednisone (Deltasone)
     D. Naproxen (Naprosyn)
    
    

Correct Answer: C. Prednisone (Deltasone)
Prednisone is used to treat persons with acute exacerbations of rheumatoid arthritis. This medication is given for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Prednisone is in a class of medications called corticosteroids. It works to treat patients with low levels of corticosteroids by replacing steroids that are normally produced naturally by the body. It works to treat other conditions by reducing swelling and redness and by changing the way the immune system works.
Option A: Gold sodium thiomalate is usually used in combination with aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain. Gold has an immunosuppressive effect. Gold sodium thiomalate is a form of gold that affects the process of inflammation in the body. Gold sodium thiomalate is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis in adults and children.
Option B: Azathioprine is used for clients with life-threatening rheumatoid arthritis for its immunosuppressive effects. Azathioprine is in a class of medications called immunosuppressants. It works by decreasing the activity of the body’s immune system so it will not attack the transplanted organ or the joints.
Option D: Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Immunosuppression does not occur. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Naproxen is used to treat pain or inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, tendinitis, bursitis, gout, or menstrual cramps. It can also be used to treat acute pain caused by other conditions not listed in this medication guide.