title: The use of methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis.
abstract: The use of methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis is reviewed. Methotrexate, a folic acid antagonist, is sometimes employed in an attempt to symptomatically control patients whose disease does not respond adequately to conventional therapies. Systemic administration of 7.5-15 mg/wk in a "pulse" fashion appears to be effective without precipitating severe adverse effects. However, concern over potentially serious side effects and a lack of well-controlled clinical trials have limited its use to severe, refractory disease. Further studies are needed before its role in rheumatoid arthritis can justifiably be expanded.
mesh_terms: D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D002455:Cell Division / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D007270:Injections, Intra-Articular; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D008727:Methotrexate