About

Methotrexate is an antimetabolite and immunosuppressant medication. It works by interfering with the metabolism of folic acid, which is essential for cell growth and division. In oncology, it inhibits DNA synthesis and cell replication, making it highly effective against rapidly dividing cancer cells. As an immunosuppressant, it significantly reduces the activity of the immune system by affecting lymphocyte proliferation and function, thereby controlling severe autoimmune diseases. Its mechanism involves inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase, leading to a depletion of tetrahydrofolate and subsequent inhibition of purine and pyrimidine synthesis. This dual action makes it a versatile drug in both aggressive cancer therapy and the long-term management of various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, requiring careful dosing and monitoring.

Uses

Treatment of various cancers (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma, breast cancer).
Management of severe, active rheumatoid arthritis.
Control of severe, recalcitrant psoriasis.
Treatment of certain autoimmune diseases like Crohn's disease.

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency are determined by the specific condition and patient response.

Benefits

Effective in treating a wide range of cancers.
Significantly reduces inflammation in autoimmune diseases.
Slows disease progression in rheumatoid arthritis.
Controls severe psoriatic lesions.
Can be used as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD).
Available in various formulations for different indications.

Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting
Oral ulcers (stomatitis)
Hair loss (alopecia)
Fatigue
Diarrhea
Elevated liver enzymes
Bone marrow suppression (low blood counts)
Increased risk of infection
Kidney dysfunction
Pulmonary fibrosis
Skin rash
Photosensitivity

Safety Measures

Alcohol - Avoid alcohol consumption due to increased risk of liver toxicity, a significant side effect of methotrexate.
Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to severe teratogenic effects and risk of fetal death. Effective contraception is essential.
Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding as methotrexate can pass into breast milk and harm the infant.
Liver - Use with extreme caution or avoid in patients with pre-existing liver disease; regular liver function monitoring is crucial.
Kidney - Dose adjustment is necessary in patients with impaired kidney function, as it is primarily excreted renally.
Lung - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing lung disease due to the risk of methotrexate-induced pneumonitis.

Disclaimer

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