Methotrexate--the relationship between dose and clinical effect.
Methotrexate (MTX) is an effective anti-rheumatic drug. Despite its frequent use, the relationship between different MTX doses and clinical effects remain unclear. In a randomized double-blind study in patients with RA, the effects of four MTX doses (5 to 20 mg) was studied. MTX (5 mg) induced a significant effect on the Ritchie joint index, morning stiffness, pain, ESR and C-reactive protein. The effect of MTX on those variables was related to the dose in the range from 5 to 20 mg MTX weekly. Interindividual differences in dose-response curves were observed. The study shows that MTX doses should be adjusted individually for each patient in order to improve efficacy and decrease dose-dependent side effects.
Seideman
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Department of Internal Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Danderyd Hospital, Sweden.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D006801:Humans; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D008727:Methotrexate