Methotrexate

Methotrexate is one of the oldest chemotherapy drugs. It has been around and in use for many years. Methotrexate is a yellow powder which, when prepared for use, becomes a clear, yellow liquid, and is given by intravenous route. It is also available in tablet form. It is most commonly used in the following situations:

• Breast cancer

• Head and Neck cancer

• Lung cancer

• Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia

• Injection inside the spinal fluid

• Gestational Throphoblastic disease

• Bone tumors

• Lymphomas

• Treatment of arthritis

The type and extent of a cancer will determine the method and schedule of administration of this drug. This decision is made by the medical oncologist. Methotrexate is normally given intravenously or orally.

Side effects:

Methotrexate exerts its chemotherapeutic effect by its ability to counteract and compete with folic acid in cancer cells resulting in folic acid deficiency within the cells and causing their demise. Normal cells are not immune form this effect of Methotrexate either. As a result, it can cause significant side effects in the body. The degree and severity of the side effects depend on the amount and schedule of the administration of Methotrexate. Following are some of the most common and important ill effects:

• Low white blood counts

• Low platelet count

• Anemia

• Hair Loss

• Soreness of the mouth, difficulty swallowing

• Diarrhea

• Liver damage

• Lung damage

• Nerve damage

• Kidney damage

Most of these complications and side effects of Methotrexate can be either prevented or treated by using Leucovorin, which is normally administered 24 hours after the Methotrexate is given. This will allow the Methotrexate to exert its anti cancer effect. It is imperative that patients relay any side effects or problems to their medical oncologists.