Methotrexate in Rheumatology – Complete patient info

Methotrexate is one of the most common drug used in the field of rheumatology. It is used to treat a variety of arthritis (including rheumatoid arthritis) and other conditions. This drug is very helpful in controlling rheumatic diseases and helps prevent joint damage in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This document is to give information about methotrexate use in rheumatology. The following information will help patients to address any concerns about taking methotrexate.

How do we take methotrexate?

Methotrexate is usually given in the form of tablets in once or twice weekly dose. We usually start with the dose of 7.5 mg once a week and gradually increase to a maximum of 20-25 mg per week.

Please make sure that you have understood the dose of your methotrexate tablet. One should not take the same on a daily basis or take a higher dose by mistake.

Besides tablets, methotrexate can be given in the form of a weekly injection. It is given as a subcutaneous injection like an insulin. In a subcutaneous injection we give injection in the layer of the fat under the skin. This is given with a very small needle like insulin and causes very little discomfort. It can be usually taken by patients themselves at home. Patients can be easily taught how to take it. Methotrexate injections can be a better mode for patients who feel vomiting like with tablets (please see side effects below). Injections might also be a option for those who are not responding well to tablets.

What is methotrexate drug ?

Methotrexate (common Indian methotrexate brand names: Folitrax, Mexate, Mext-F, neotrexate etc) is a class of drug known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)DMARD drugs helps to control and modify the underlying disease. Methotrexate helps to control the overactive immunity in rheumatic diseases and decrease the inflammation (swelling in joints or organs). Controlling inflammation helps minimise or prevent any damage to joints or other organs. This drug actually controls the disease rather than making the symptoms better. Hence such drugs are called disease-modifying drugs.

Is methotrexate a safe tablet to take for rheumatology diseases in the long term ?

Methotrexate has been used in Rheumatoid arthritis for more than 30 years now. Many patients take it throughout life without any major issues. A specialist doctor will always monitor patients on methotrexate closely. They will stop or change the drug if there are any issues.