Methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis
Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug from the group of antimetabolites used to treat many types of malignant tumors, as well as rheumatoid arthritis. The drug is available in the form of tablets or solution for injection. For arthritis, preference is given to tablets, which can be replaced by subcutaneous injections in the presence of any diseases of the digestive system.
Methotrexate has a rapid effect on cell division, helps to stop the production of deoxyribonucleic acid in the body and eliminate rheumatoid factor, that is, it slows down the action of immunity cells aimed at destroying the cells of their own organism. Since the drug does not have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, it is prescribed in combination with other medicines that are safer for human health.
Exceeding the dose of the drug is dangerous to human life, as well as taking it without a proper appointment by a specialist. The dose of medication is calculated strictly individually, depending on the age, weight and general condition of the patient. The main purpose of his appointment in rheumatoid arthritis is to stop the process of destruction of joint tissue, leading to disability of the patient.
A weekly dose of the drug, as a rule, does not exceed 10 mg. The first positive results of treatment are noticeable already after 2-4 weeks from the beginning of its reception. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs chronically, Methotrexate can be prescribed both in the period of exacerbation, and in the period of remission of the disease. Usually, treatment begins immediately after an accurate diagnosis is established.
Contraindications to the use of the drug are: renal failure, HIV infection, tuberculosis , gastric ulcer , alcoholism, hypersensitivity to its components. Methotrexate is not prescribed during pregnancy, because it has a high toxicity that can have a strong negative impact on the development of the fetus. At the time of treatment should refuse to breastfeed or postpone treatment with the drug (as recommended by the doctor). In addition, during the reception of methotrexate in the conduct of active sex life, you should take safe contraceptives or choose another reliable method of contraception.
The drug has an extensive list of side effects, including the possibility of death, but its relatively small doses prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis are usually well tolerated by patients. The most common causes are stomatitis, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, decreased vision, headache, dizziness, anemia, chronic fatigue. The more serious consequences of drug treatment include the development of liver cirrhosis, decreased sexual desire, anemia. If ingested in excess of the dose should be immediately contact a specialist. To reduce the toxic effects of the drug on the body contributes to the intravenous administration of calcium folinata.
Taking Methotrexate tablets negatively affects the state of the liver, inhibits bone marrow cells that perform the function of blood production, as well as cells of the nervous system. However, with all medical prescriptions, the drug provides a long-term remission of rheumatoid arthritis, and its combination with other drugs, also prescribed to treat this disease, allows you to get rid of its main manifestations for months and even years.
- Rheumatism: Symptoms and Treatment
- Osteomyelitis
- Diet and nutrition for rheumatoid arthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms and Treatment
When taking methotrexate, one should not forget about its detrimental effect on the liver. Prevents the negative impact on the liver of folinic (non-folic!) Acid. Folic acid can cause complications.