The effects of food on methotrexate absorption.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effects of food on methotrexate (MTX) absorption in patients receiving MTX for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).


METHODS
Standard pharmacokinetic variables were determined in patients with RA after their usual maintenance dose of MTX, under fasting conditions and after they ate a standard breakfast.


RESULTS
No significant differences in area under the serum concentration versus time curve, maximal MTX concentration after dosing (Cmax), time to Cmax), bioavailability, urinary MTX, renal clearance of MTX, or creatinine clearance were observed between the 2 dosing conditions.


CONCLUSIONS
We observed no significant effect of food on MTX absorption or bioavailability. Patients may consume MTX without regard to meals.
Hamilton
R A
RA
Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, NY 12208, USA.
Kremer
J M
JM
D000042:Absorption; D000368:Aged; D001682:Biological Availability; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003404:Creatinine / Q000652:urine; D004435:Eating; D005215:Fasting; D005502:Food; D006801:Humans; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000493:pharmacokinetics* / Q000652:urine; D008875:Middle Aged
D003404:Creatinine; D008727:Methotrexate