Final answer:
RR's symptoms of nausea and gastric irritation from methotrexate treatment for rheumatoid arthritis can be managed with different therapies, including hydroxychloroquine, which is effective but has slower onset of action and requires limited sun exposure due to photosensitivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
RR, aged 42 years, is dealing with nausea and gastric irritation as side effects from her oral methotrexate treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To manage the symptoms of her condition, different therapies can be prescribed. In a similar case, Kerry's rheumatologist started her on a low dose of corticosteroids to alleviate her rashes along with hydroxychloroquine, which is an anti-inflammatory drug also commonly used in the treatment of RA, children's arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), and other autoimmune diseases.
Hydroxychloroquine works by interfering with antigen processing and the activation of autoimmunity, offering a different mechanism to directly suppress inflammation. The effects of hydroxychloroquine are slower compared to other anti-inflammatory drugs, yet it is effective for long-term management especially in combination with other therapies in conditions like SLE. Additional advice for patients on hydroxychloroquine often includes limiting exposure to sunlight due to the risk of photosensitivity precipitating rashes.