Low-dose methotrexate taken once a week was shown to be effective in rheumatoid arthritis in It is now a drug of first choice for rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate is also used as an intra-muscular injection to terminate ectopic pregnancy , as an alternative to surgery.
Since it is taken only once per week, it is a very low-cost treatment. The correct dose of methotrexate commonly between 7. But it can take one to two months to work.
This is because inhibiting folate targets rapidly dividing cells of the gastrointestinal tract. Folic acid supplementation is used to prevent side effects associated with low-dose methotrexate therapy.
Preferably, folic acid is not taken on the same day methotrexate is taken. Many studies have shown that folic acid supplements do not hinder the effectiveness of methotrexate.
If methotrexate is taken too frequently — daily instead of weekly, for instance — it can suppress bone marrow, reducing blood cell production and impairing the immune system. This can make the body susceptible to infections and, in the worst-case scenario, result in death.
In rare cases, this suppression of blood cell production can also occur at normal doses. Such drug interactions may cause harmful toxicity, and possibly even death. Make sure your healthcare provider has a complete list of all medications that you take and discuss possible interactions with methotrexate.
Methotrexate should not be taken by people who have liver disease, significant kidney disease, alcoholism, blood disorders e. Methotrexate should also not be used by women who are pregnant or who are breastfeeding. It also should be stopped by both women and men who are planning a pregnancy.
If you experience signs of an allergic reaction while taking methotrexate, seek emergency medical attention. Such signs would include hives, skin reactions, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. You should discontinue methotrexate and call your healthcare provider if you develop a dry cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea, vomiting, white patches or sores inside your mouth , blood in urine or stool, rapid weight gain, decreased urine production, seizure, fever, chills, flu symptoms, weakness, lightheadedness, or any other unusual symptom.
The most common side effects associated with methotrexate are nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and blurry vision. To avoid nausea, divide the dose throughout the day, or another option would be to give methotrexate by subcutaneous injection. Methotrexate can be a safe and effective medication for rheumatoid arthritis if taken properly.
It must be taken according to directions, with no deviation from those directions. Never take more than is prescribed and do not switch the weekly schedule. Be aware of potential side effects, especially serious adverse events, and notify your healthcare provider immediately if anything worrisome develops.
You will be required to have laboratory tests periodically to monitor blood cell counts, liver enzymes , and kidney function. Do not drink alcohol while taking methotrexate. Let your healthcare provider know if you develop an active infection. Ask your practitioner about taking antibiotics for the infection. It is also important to discuss vaccinations with your healthcare provider. People who are taking higher doses of methotrexate should avoid live vaccines.
Bottom line—for safe use of methotrexate, you must strictly follow directions and pay attention to warnings and precautions. Talk openly with your healthcare provider about anything that remains unclear, or anything that is concerning to you. Dealing with chronic inflammation? In addition, the incidence of hepatotoxicity was also studied. Of the 80 patients, 66 completed 8 weeks of study, whereas 53 completed 16 weeks of study. Most withdrawals were because of inefficacy.
Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.
This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions. Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.
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