Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that helps in slowing the progression of tissue damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis. More about the dosage, benefits, and side-effects of methotrexate therapy follows.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic health condition characterized by the inflammation of the joints and adjacent joint tissues. At times, inflammation is manifested in other parts of the body, such as the eyes and lungs. Since several organs are affected, it is often considered to be a systemic disease. As per statistics, it is estimated that about one percent of the world's population suffers from rheumatoid arthritis. It is also observed that women are at a higher risk of developing this condition as compared to men.

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known. Medical researchers are of the opinion that it results from the autoimmune responses of the body. Under such conditions, the immune system secretes substances that attack the body's own tissues and organs, resulting in inflammation. In addition, both genetic and environmental factors also trigger rheumatoid arthritis. Major symptoms include joint pain, joint swelling, increased fatigue, fever, and weight loss. Treatment involves medications, surgical procedures, and lifestyle modifications.

Methotrexate Therapy: Effective for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Speaking about the treatment, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are commonly prescribed. They are a group of drugs formulated to minimize the damage of the joints and organs. One of the effective DMARDs is methotrexate, which is approved by the FDA for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have revealed that methotrexate taken in combination with other cytotoxic drugs may be more effective as a treatment option.

Methotrexate affects the activity of certain enzymes (for example, dihydrofolate reductase) responsible for immune responses. Hence, this drug slows down the disease progression by acting indirectly on the immune system. Methotrexate also minimizes the damage caused; the chances of low mobility and long-term disability can be reduced by administration of the drug in proper doses. It also helps in managing joint pain and swelling, which are the commonly manifested symptoms.

Dosage
Methotrexate is available in the form of pills (2.5 mg) or injections. The dosage may vary based on the severity of the disease and health condition of the affected individual. Very often, the beginning dose is 7.5-10 mg for adults. Unlike other medications, methotrexate is taken only once a week. It is a slow acting drug; improvement may be observed after 2 months. At times, the physician may extend the therapy to six months or even 12 months, depending upon the patient's condition.

Very often, the physician recommends other fast acting medications, so as to manage the painful symptoms effectively. The patient should disclose if he is currently taking any medication. Chemically, methotrexate is a folic acid antagonist. Hence, folic acid supplements should be taken along with this drug. These supplements are also effective in combating the side effects of methotrexate therapy.

Side Effects
Methotrexate, similar to other potential drugs, is associated with certain side effects, especially when administered without a proper prescription. Notable side effects are skin disorder, nausea, vomiting, difficulty in breathing, cough, and hair loss. A severe adverse effect is damage to the liver tissues. Considering this, the physician may routinely examine the liver functioning during the course of treatment.

The risk for abnormal liver functioning is high among people who drink alcohol while undergoing methotrexate therapy. Overall, it is more effective if the treatment is started in the early stages. Though there may be certain side-effects of the drug, the benefits outweigh them, especially for those who do not respond to other treatment options.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be replaced for the advice of a medical professional.