Which option is NOT a non-DMARD for RA symptom relief?

Which option is NOT a non-DMARD for RA symptom relief?

• A. MTX
• B. Glucocorticoids
• C. NSAIDs
• D. APAP

Answer: (A)

The key idea is distinguishing DMARDs from non-DMARDs in rheumatoid arthritis. Non-DMARDs are used for symptom relief and quick control of pain and inflammation, without changing the disease's long-term course. Methotrexate is a classic DMARD: it modifies the underlying immune process and helps slow or prevent joint damage, rather than acting solely as a symptomatic relief agent. That’s why it’s not a non-DMARD. The other options—glucocorticoids, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen—are used mainly for symptom relief, with varying effects on inflammation and pain but without altering disease progression in the same fundamental way.

The key idea is distinguishing DMARDs from non-DMARDs in rheumatoid arthritis. Non-DMARDs are used for symptom relief and quick control of pain and inflammation, without changing the disease's long-term course. Methotrexate is a classic DMARD: it modifies the underlying immune process and helps slow or prevent joint damage, rather than acting solely as a symptomatic relief agent. That’s why it’s not a non-DMARD. The other options—glucocorticoids, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen—are used mainly for symptom relief, with varying effects on inflammation and pain but without altering disease progression in the same fundamental way.