Why is methotrexate administered once a week?

Feb 21, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Aihua

Introduction

Methotrexate is typically taken once a week, as the drug can affect normal cells in the body. Methotrexate is an immunosuppressive agent and also a chemotherapy drug. It is available in both tablet and injectable forms, and generally, oral tablets are sufficient. For patients who experience gastrointestinal discomfort after taking the medication, switching to the injectable form may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Methotrexate is generally taken once a week because the drug can affect normal cells in the body.

Methotrexate is an immunosuppressive medication and also a chemotherapeutic agent. It is used to treat various autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. The drug works by inhibiting DNA biosynthesis to control disease progression. Because it may also affect normal bodily cells, it is typically administered only once weekly to minimize severe adverse effects on the body. Methotrexate affects immune function, so patients should avoid staying up late, exposure to cold, and consuming spicy foods during treatment, in order to reduce the risk of bacterial or viral infections. As a prescription medication, methotrexate must be taken under the guidance of a qualified physician. It should not be used without medical supervision, nor should the dosage be adjusted arbitrarily, to prevent side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and headache.

Methotrexate is available in both tablet and injectable forms. In most cases, oral tablets are sufficient. For some patients who experience gastrointestinal discomfort after taking the tablets, switching to the injectable form may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

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What are the adverse reactions of methotrexate?

Methotrexate may cause adverse reactions such as nausea, cough, and jaundice. Methotrexate is a cytotoxic drug that irritates the gastric mucosa, leading to nausea and vomiting. Long-term, high-dose use can damage the lungs, causing pulmonary fibrosis and resulting in symptoms such as cough. Methotrexate can also impair liver function, leading to jaundice and even hepatocellular necrosis, fatty liver with fibrosis, and cirrhosis.

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What is the usage of methotrexate tablets in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis?

Methotrexate tablets are an immunosuppressant commonly used to treat autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of arthritis. Methotrexate works by inhibiting cell proliferation and immune cell function, thereby reducing inflammatory responses and controlling disease progression. The usual route of administration is oral; however, if a higher dose is required, intravenous or intramuscular injection may be chosen instead.

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What are the side effects of methotrexate?

Under normal circumstances, common dosage forms of methotrexate include methotrexate tablets and methotrexate injection. The use of methotrexate may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal reactions, skin reactions, liver function damage, bone marrow suppression, and kidney function impairment. It is recommended to consult a professional physician or pharmacist before using methotrexate and to strictly follow medical instructions when taking the medication.