What Are the Different Uses of Methotrexate?

The different uses of methotrexate, which is a medication, include treating lung, breast, and skin cancers. Some patients may also use it to treat severe psoriasis after other treatments have failed. Doctors may also prescribe it for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It works by interfering in the normal growth process of certain cells. RA patients may find that their symptoms are alleviated, because methotrexate also suppresses the immune system.

Uses of methotrexate also include treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS). Patients with MS experience a loss of muscle coordination, numbness, and speech problems. Those with Crohn's disease may also take this drug to alleviate symptoms like diarrhea and pain. Methotrexate treats Crohn's disease by suppressing the immune system, which is overactive and attacks the digestive tract.

Sometimes, patients experience life-threatening side effects from this drug. The uses of methotrexate should be limited to conditions that are already life-threatening or that are not relieved by other treatments. It may cause liver damage, a decrease in blood cells, and damage to the lungs or intestines.

Methotrexate is available as a tablet to be taken by mouth, typically once or twice per week. While taking this drug, patients should have their blood regularly tested to check for harmful side effects. The doctor should also check the function of organs like the kidneys and liver.

Some side effects may occur with the use of methotrexate, which should be reported to the prescribing physician if they become severe. Patients may experience blurred vision, headache, and dizziness. Fatigue and bleeding gums may also occur, as well as nausea, upset stomach, shortness of breath, dry cough, and vomiting.

More serious side effects require immediate medical attention. These may include bloody urine or stools, changes in urination frequency, and symptoms of a flu, such as fever, chills, and aches. Severe stomach pain, jaundice, and a peeling or red skin rash have also been reported.

Before the use of methotrexate is considered, the patient must disclose their other medical conditions, medications, and supplements. It should never be used in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Methotrexate may also be contraindicated for use by those with stomach ulcers, liver disease, or lung disease. It may interact with other medicines, including steroids, tetracycline, and oral diabetes drugs, as well as sulfa drugs, phenytoin, and penicillin antibiotics. Patients should also avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen and ibuprofen.