Methotrexate interferes with cell growth

Methotrexate may be given as a pill or as a shot in the vein (intravenously, or iv) or in the muscle (intramuscularly, or im). By blocking the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, methotrexate inhibits the production of thymidine, a requirement for dna synthesis. Methotrexate interferes with cell growth and specifically interferes with rapidly dividing cells. Conditions that produce rapid cell division include neoplastic disease, autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis), and pregnancy.

Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Methotrexate is administered once weekly as a single dose or in divided doses given over a 24-hour period. To reduce the incidence of major toxic effects, methotrexate should never be given in daily doses. Relative contraindications include renal dysfunction, liver disease, active infectious disease and excessive alcohol consumption. Both women and men of reproductive age should use birth control during methotrexate therapy. Potential drug interactions include salicylates and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are both commonly used in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis. A premethotrexate evaluation is important to ensure proper patient selection for this effective but potentially toxic drug. (am fam physician 2000;62:1607-12,1614.

Methotrexate use rheumatoid arthritis

Methotrexate is an antimetabolite and antifolate drug which acts by inhibiting the metabolism of frolic acid, and is capable of blocking the metabolism of cells. It is an anti-inflammatory agent used for the treatment of. And other diseases associated with active immune system or inflammatory conditions. Methotrexate works by making the immune system less active and suppressing the blood cells that cause inflammation. Nearly 60% of all the rheumatoid arthritis patients, are currently on or have been on methotrexate at some point of their treatment. Some of the common uses of methotrexate are as follows:. For the treatment of various diseases. : methotrexate is a useful drug for the treatment of diseases like polymyositis, ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid.