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Safety Profile of Methotrexate Therapy in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Syed Hassan Mustafa1, Tausif Ahmad2, Malab Balouch3
1Rheumatology, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, PAK.
Cureus
|August 24, 2022
Summary
Methotrexate (MTX) therapy for rheumatoid arthritis is generally safe, but gastrointestinal issues are the most frequent adverse effects. Approximately one-third of patients experience side effects within six months.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Methotrexate (MTX) is a common disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used in RA management.
- Understanding the safety profile of MTX is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and adverse effects of methotrexate therapy in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- To identify the incidence and types of side effects associated with MTX treatment in RA.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 411 RA patients receiving MTX (10-20 mg/week).
- Patients were monitored for four months for adverse events including cytopenias, liver/renal function abnormalities, fever, and gastrointestinal issues.
Main Results:
- Gastrointestinal side effects were most prevalent (11.9%), followed by mucocutaneous (8.5%) and fever (8.3%).
- Overall, one in three patients experienced some adverse effect within six months of MTX therapy.
- The study included a majority of female patients (57.6%) with an average age of 43 years.
Conclusions:
- Methotrexate therapy for rheumatoid arthritis is associated with a notable incidence of adverse effects.
- Gastrointestinal disturbances are the most common side effects reported.
- Regular monitoring for adverse events is recommended during MTX treatment for RA.
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