Methotrexate: What It Is and How It Works

If you’ve heard doctors mention methotrexate, you probably wonder what the drug actually does. In simple terms, it’s a medication that slows down cell growth. That sounds scary, but the trick is that it can calm down an overactive immune system or stop fast‑growing cancer cells.

Common Uses of Methotrexate

Most people take methotrexate for three main reasons:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune diseases: The drug reduces inflammation, so joints feel less stiff and painful.
• Pscyhosis of the skin (psoriasis): Low‑dose methotrexate can clear up thick patches when creams aren’t enough.
• Cancer chemotherapy: Higher doses target fast‑dividing cells in cancers like leukemia, breast cancer and lung cancer.

Doctors may also prescribe it for ectopic pregnancy or certain rare conditions, but the three above cover most cases you’ll see online.

How to Take Methotrexate Safely

The first rule is: follow your doctor’s dosing schedule exactly. Methotrexate comes in pills, injections and even a weekly tablet form for arthritis. Never take it daily unless instructed – that can cause serious toxicity.

Here are practical tips to keep side effects low:

1. Take it on an empty stomach: Swallow the tablet with water, then wait at least an hour before eating. This helps absorption and reduces nausea.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Methotrexate can affect your kidneys, and water helps flush it out.
3. Folic acid supplement: Most doctors recommend a daily folic acid pill to counteract the drug’s impact on healthy cells. It cuts down mouth sores and fatigue.
4. Blood tests are a must: Your doctor will check liver enzymes, kidney function and blood counts regularly. If anything looks off, they may adjust the dose.
5. Avoid alcohol: Alcohol stresses the liver, and methotrexate already does that too. Skipping drinks while on therapy is a safe move.

If you miss a dose, call your pharmacy or doctor. Don’t double‑up to make up for it – that’s a common mistake that leads to toxicity.

Side effects can range from mild to severe. Common complaints are nausea, mouth ulcers and feeling unusually tired. If you notice rash, shortness of breath, yellowing skin or persistent fever, seek medical help right away – those could be signs of liver problems or a blood issue.

One question people ask often: can I become pregnant while on methotrexate? The answer is no for both men and women. The drug can cause birth defects, so use reliable contraception throughout treatment and for several months after stopping.

When you’re ready to start or adjust methotrexate, keep a simple notebook of how you feel each week. Note any new aches, stomach upset or changes in mood. Sharing this log with your doctor makes the next visit smoother and helps them fine‑tune the dose.

Bottom line: methotrexate is a powerful tool when used correctly. It can bring arthritis pain down dramatically, clear stubborn psoriasis patches, or fight cancer cells effectively. Respect the weekly schedule, take folic acid, stay hydrated, and keep up with lab work – that’s the recipe for safe use.

Got more questions about methotrexate? Our site offers deeper guides on dosage calculations, what to expect during the first few weeks, and how to talk to your pharmacist. Browse the related articles below for a quick read.