Methotrexate is a medication commonly used to treat certain types of cancer, autoimmune diseases,

Methotrexate is a medication commonly used to treat certain types of cancer, autoimmune diseases, and ectopic pregnancies. It works by inhibiting the growth of rapidly dividing cells, which is useful in both cancer treatment and autoimmune conditions.

Here’s how it works in different contexts:

1. Cancer Treatment:

Methotrexate is classified as an antimetabolite and antifolate drug. It interferes with the metabolism of folic acid, which is essential for DNA synthesis and cell replication. By inhibiting an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), methotrexate reduces the production of tetrahydrofolate, a molecule required for synthesizing thymidine and purine nucleotides. This inhibition results in the suppression of DNA synthesis, particularly affecting rapidly dividing cancer cells.

2. Autoimmune Diseases:

Methotrexate is used in lower doses to treat autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn's disease. In these diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Methotrexate helps by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. It is believed to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes involved in the inflammatory process and reduce the proliferation of immune cells that contribute to the disease.

3. Ectopic Pregnancy:

Methotrexate can also be used to treat ectopic pregnancies, which occur when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube. In this context, methotrexate works by stopping the growth of the rapidly dividing trophoblastic tissue (the tissue that forms the placenta), effectively terminating the non-viable pregnancy.

Administration and Side Effects:

Administration: Methotrexate can be taken orally, by injection (intramuscular or subcutaneous), or intravenously, depending on the condition being treated.

Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, and fatigue. More severe side effects can include liver toxicity, bone marrow suppression, and increased risk of infections. Regular monitoring through blood tests is essential for patients on methotrexate to manage and mitigate potential adverse effects.

Precautions:

Folic Acid Supplementation: Because methotrexate inhibits folic acid, patients are often prescribed folic acid supplements to reduce side effects.

Monitoring: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function, kidney function, and blood cell counts.

Contraindications: Methotrexate is contraindicated in pregnancy (except in the case of ectopic pregnancy), as it can cause birth defects. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe liver or kidney disease.

Methotrexate is a versatile and powerful drug with applications across various medical fields, but its use requires careful monitoring and management due to its potential side effects.