Longterm experience with low dose weekly methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis.
Longterm prospective studies (several of greater than 5 years' duration) report sustained efficacy with low dose weekly methotrexate. A "steroid-sparing" effect has been noted with methotrexate in 2 of the studies. Of 230 patients enrolled in prospective studies, only 8% stopped therapy due to toxicity and 3% due to lack of efficacy. Life table analysis projected that 63% of these patients would receive therapy for 6 years. Even though adverse experiences were frequent, serious reactions have been rare in the published studies.
Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115.
M E
ME
Weinblatt
A L
AL
Maier
D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D006801:Humans; D015993:Life Tables; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013997:Time Factors
D008727:Methotrexate