Methotrexate Flashcards
True or False: Methotrexate is classified as an antimetabolite.
True (A folate analog)
What is the mechanism of action of Methotrexate?
Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, preventing the synthesis of tetrahydrofolate (THF), leading to decreased DNA synthesis and cell proliferation.
What is the effect of Methotrexate on immune function?
It is immunosuppressive.
What is the mechanism by which Methotrexate exerts its anti-inflammatory effects?
It inhibits the proliferation of lymphocytes and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
What is the primary route of administration for Methotrexate?
Oral and parenteral (intramuscular or intravenous).
What is the typical starting dose of Methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis?
7.5 to 15 mg once weekly.
Methotrexate is contraindicated in patients with __________.
severe renal impairment.
vvvvvvvvvvv
MTX causes nephrotoxicity.
What should be avoided while taking Methotrexate?
Alcohol consumption.
Fill in the blank: Methotrexate is commonly used to treat __________.
rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain types of cancer.
What cancers does Methotrexate treat?
Leukemias, lymphomas, breast cancer, head and neck cancer, lung cancer.
Which leukemia is Methotrexate primarily used to treat?
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
Fill in the blank: Methotrexate is often used in combination with __________ for the treatment of certain cancers.
other chemotherapeutic agents.
What are the non-cancer uses of Methotrexate?
First-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, ectopic pregnancy, and psoriasis.
What is the dosing strategy for Methotrexate in treating rheumatoid arthritis?
Typically started at low doses once weekly.
Methotrexate and _________ is the treatment for molar pregnancies.
Surgery
What is the main reason for using Methotrexate in ectopic pregnancy?
To stop the growth of trophoblastic tissue.
True or False: Methotrexate is effective in treating Crohn’s disease.
True
True or False: Methotrexate can cause hepatotoxicity.
True
What is a common hematologic side effect of Methotrexate?
Methotrexate causes megaloblastic anemia and overall leads to myelosuppression (bone marrow suppression) leading to pancytopenia due to folate deficiency.
What laboratory test should be monitored regularly in patients on Methotrexate?
Complete blood count (CBC) and liver function tests due to pancytopenia and hepatotoxicity.
Is the myleosuppression caused by methotrexate reversible?
Myelosuppression caused by methotrexate is reversible with leucovorin.
True or False: Methotrexate can cause pulmonary toxicity.
True.
What specific lung complication can Methotrexate cause?
Pulmonary fibrosis (restrictive lung disease).
Fill in the blank: Methotrexate can lead to __________ if used in high doses.
gastrointestinal toxicity.
What oral issue does methotrexate cause?
Mucositis (eg, mouth ulcers).
What should be done if a patient develops severe side effects from Methotrexate?
Discontinue the medication and provide supportive care.
What is the antidote for Methotrexate toxicity?
Leucovorin (folinic acid).
Which vitamin can help mitigate the side effects of Methotrexate?
Folic acid.
True or False: Methotrexate is teratogenic.
True. Folate deficiency leads to neural tube defects.
Which population should exercise caution when using Methotrexate?
Pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant.
