Uses of Methotrexate

Methotrexate is used to treat active rheumatoid arthritis in adults which is a form of severe arthritis occurring due to unknown reasons (idiopathic) and old age and is non-responsive to conventional painkillers (such as Non Steriodal Anti Inflammatory Drugs Ex. aceclofenac). It is also used to treat its polyarthritic forms (characterized by the involvement of five or more joints) which is severe, active and idiopathic in nature and affects young people (Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis – JIA).

Therapeutic Category

Methotrexate: Anti-metabolites

How Methotrexate works

Methotrexate works by interfering with the growth of those cells in the body that reproduce quickly. As a result, growth of those cells gets retarded, thus serving as an anti-tumour agent. Also, it decreases the undesired reactions of the body’s own immune-defence mechanism, thereby working as an effective immunosuppressant. Additionally, it also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, thereby reducing the pain, swelling and redness. As a result, it treats and resolves the symptoms associated with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

Common side effects of Methotrexate

• Sore throat due to inflammation
• Soreness in mouth and lips
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea, vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Increase in the level of liver enzymes
• Infections
• Diarrhea
• Feeling tired and exhausted
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Development of rash and reddening of the skin
• Loss of hair
• Formation of ulcers in the mouth 

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• In case of accidental overdose or poisoning
• Formation of scar tissue in the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis), development of pneumonia indicated by shortness of breath along with thick mucus
• Severe allergic reactions characterized by tightness in the chest, swelling of the face, throat, hands, along with difficulty in breathing
• Severe toxic reactions of skin resulting in the formation of vesicles as seen in Stevens Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis (Lyell’s syndrome)
• Decreased white blood cells characterized by fever and general deterioration of the body along with increased level of local infections
• Painful urination
• Kidney damage
• Inflammation and/or damage of liver characterized by yellowing of skin and eyes along with fever, itchy skin and swollen/tender stomach
• Ulcer and/or bleeding in stomach characterized by black tar like stools, vomiting blood, and stomach pain
• Formation of blood clot characterized by cramps, swelling in legs, redness, breathlessness and chest pain
• Decreased formation of urine
• Fever, chills, shivering along with rapid heartbeat, breathing
• Presence of blood in urine
• Fits (convulsions)
• Spitting/ coughing blood
• Disorders of brain such as encephalopathy
• Easy tendency to bleed and bruise, persistent bleeding
• Loss of coordination
• Loss of ability to speak and/or understand speech
• Weakness and inability to move one side of the body or the whole body
• Miscarriage and/or damage to foetus (in women)

Health Tips for Methotrexate

• Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Methotrexate as it can increase the risk of side effects
• It is recommended to avoid the consumption of drinks containing caffeine such as black tea, coffee, soft drinks along with Methotrexate to prevent dehydration