​Pharmacology - Methotrexate

​Pharmacology - Methotrexate 
Action 
Exhibits a significant anti-inflammatory effect in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The greater doses of methotrexate (MTX) that are used to treat cancer are thought to be cytotoxic.

Mode of Action 
As a result of its role as a folate antagonist, it disrupts the process of thymidylate synthesis, which is necessary for the production of DNA.

Orally administered; possesses an active metabolite; both MTX and its metabolite are poly-glutamated (PgMTX substances).
6–9 hours is the half-life.

Use in Clinical Settings 
Psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, polymyositis, and vaculitis are also known to be treated with this medication. It is the drug of choice for treating rheumatoid arthritis. On top of that, MTX is an anti-cancer product.


Interferences with the gastrointestinal tract and liver damage caused by overdose. Depression of the bone marrow and pneumonitis are both possible outcomes.