Kiełbowski K, Bakinowska E, Pawlik A. How can we optimize the use of methotrexate to treat pediatric patients with inflammatory skin diseases?
Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2024;
20:111-118. [PMID:
38429876 DOI:
10.1080/17425255.2024.2326245]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Methotrexate (MTX) is a folic acid antagonist used in clinical practice in oncology and rheumatology, as well as in the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions in children. The low-doses of MTX are commonly used in children for the treatment of many inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including inflammatory skin diseases, due to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
AREAS COVERED
This review discusses the possibilities for optimizing the use of methotrexate in the treatment of pediatric patients with inflammatory skin diseases. A thorough search through PubMed and Embase databases was performed to identify relevant literature.
EXPERT OPINION
Clinical observations confirm the high efficacy and safety of low-dose MTX in children with inflammatory skin diseases. Unfortunately, to date there are few studies providing guidelines on the optimal dosage of MTX in children with inflammatory skin diseases; routes of administration; principles of monitoring; and the safety of long-term use of this medication in children. There is still a need for specific recommendations on the safest and most effective dosing and monitoring regimen for children treated with methotrexate for inflammatory skin diseases.
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