What is Methotrexate Drugs?

Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug that can be used to treat cancer and some autoimmune diseases. It was first developed in the late 1940s and FDA approved in 1953. Since then, it has become one of the most commonly prescribed disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) worldwide due to its effectiveness against certain malignancies and inflammatory conditions.

How does Methotrexate Drugs work?

Methotrexate works by inhibiting an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) which is involved in folic acid metabolism. By blocking the action of this enzyme, methotrexate decreases the levels of folic acid and its derivative tetrahydrofolate in the body. This negatively impacts DNA synthesis and cell division, making it an effective treatment against rapidly dividing cancer cells and cells involved in the inflammatory response. Methotrexate is classified as an antimetabolite, meaning it interferes with nucleotide production required for DNA synthesis.

Uses of Methotrexate in Cancer

Methotrexate has been extensively used to treat several types of cancer either alone or in combination with other drugs. Some of the cancers it is commonly used for include:

- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Methotrexate Drugs  is a first-line treatment for ALL in both children and adults. It is often part of combination chemotherapy regimens administered after initial induction chemotherapy.

- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma: Methotrexate has shown activity against several subtypes of NHL and is commonly used in multi-agent chemotherapy regimens like CHOP.

- Osteosarcoma: For patients with newly diagnosed osteosarcoma, high-dose methotrexate is part of standard treatment regimens along with other chemo drugs and surgery.

- Breast cancer: Methotrexate is occasionally used to treat early stage breast cancer, either alone or with other chemotherapy drugs as part of adjuvant therapy after surgery.

- Lung cancer: Low-dose methotrexate is sometimes used to treat non-small cell lung cancer, especially in combination with vinblastine and cisplatin.

Uses of Methotrexate in Autoimmune Diseases

Apart from its application in cancer, methotrexate has become a mainstay in the treatment of several chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions:

- Rheumatoid arthritis: Methotrexate is one of the most commonly prescribed first-line treatments for moderate to severe active RA. It is very effective at reducing symptoms, slowing joint damage, and inducing remission.

- Psoriatic arthritis: As with RA, methotrexate often forms the cornerstone treatment for psoriatic arthritis and helps control joint pain and swelling.

- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Methotrexate is frequently used as the disease-modifying treatment of choice for systemic and polyarticular JIA subtypes in children.

- Lupus: Low-dose methotrexate may be used in combination with other drugs for treating cutaneous lupus or lupus nephritis unresponsive to first-line therapies.

- Psoriasis: Methotrexate is a viable treatment option for severe, extensive plaque psoriasis, generally administered orally or subcutaneously.

Potential Side Effects of Methotrexate

While methotrexate is very effective against certain cancers and autoimmune disorders, it can also cause adverse effects that often limit its long-term use:

- Nausea/vomiting: Nausea occurs in around 30% people on methotrexate and can usually be prevented or minimized using anti-emetics.

- Liver damage: Methotrexate can potentially cause fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver if taken in high doses over many years. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes is required.

- Lung damage: Exposure to methotrexate over the long run may lead to pulmonary fibrosis in a small fraction of patients.

- Bone marrow suppression: High-dose methotrexate significantly lowers white and red blood cell counts, increasing vulnerability to infections and anemia.

- Mouth sores: Around 15% on methotrexate develop mouth ulcers which heal slowly and can cause difficulties swallowing or eating.

- Diarrhea, fatigue, hair thinning: Other sporadic side effects may include diarrhea, tiredness, gastrointestinal upset, and temporary hair thinning.

Proper precautions include regular blood monitoring, limiting alcohol intake, switching to injections/patches for improved tolerance, and temporarily discontinuing methotrexate if any infections develop. Most side effects abate once treatment is stopped.

In conclusion, methotrexate has stood the test of time since its discovery and remains a powerful drug in tackling various malignant and autoimmune conditions effectively. Close medical supervision and patient compliance with recommended safety measures are necessary for maximizing the benefits of methotrexate therapy while minimizing potential toxicities.

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About Author:

Alice Mutum is a seasoned senior content editor at Coherent Market Insights, leveraging extensive expertise gained from her previous role as a content writer. With seven years in content development, Alice masterfully employs SEO best practices and cutting-edge digital marketing strategies to craft high-ranking, impactful content. As an editor, she meticulously ensures flawless grammar and punctuation, precise data accuracy, and perfect alignment with audience needs in every research report. Alice's dedication to excellence and her strategic approach to content make her an invaluable asset in the world of market insights.

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