What medication is commonly used for a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis?

Methotrexate is commonly used for clients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis because it is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that helps to slow the progression of the disease and prevent joint damage. It works by inhibiting the immune system and reducing inflammation, which can lead to improved function and quality of life for patients. Methotrexate is often considered the first-line treatment due to its efficacy in managing symptoms and its ability to modify the disease course.

Other medications mentioned, such as aspirin, prednisone, and ibuprofen, can be used for pain relief and to reduce inflammation, but they do not have the same disease-modifying properties as methotrexate. While nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin can help control symptoms, they do not prevent the long-term joint damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can also be effective for managing inflammation and symptom relief, but it is typically used for short-term control rather than as a primary treatment for long-term disease modification. Therefore, methotrexate is the most appropriate choice for actively managing the disease over time.