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Atia O, Friss C, Ledderman N, Greenfeld S, Kariv R, Daher S, Yanai H, Loewenberg Weisband Y, Matz E, Dotan I, Turner D. Thiopurines Have Longer Treatment Durability than Methotrexate in Adults and Children with Crohn's Disease: A Nationwide Analysis from the epi-IIRN Cohort. J Crohns Colitis 2023; 17:1614-1623. [PMID: 37099729 DOI: 10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjad076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thiopurines and methotrexate have long been used to maintain remission in Crohn's disease [CD]. In this nationwide study, we aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of these drugs in CD. METHODS We used data from the epi-IIRN cohort, including all patients with CD diagnosed in Israel. Outcomes were compared by propensity-score matching and included therapeutic failure, hospitalisations, surgeries, steroid dependency, and adverse events. RESULTS Of the 19264 patients diagnosed with CD since 2005, 3885 [20%] ever received thiopurines as monotherapy and 553 [2.9%] received methotrexate. Whereas the use of thiopurines declined from 22% in 2012-2015 to 12% in 2017-2020, the use of methotrexate remained stable. The probability of sustaining therapy at 1, 3, and 5 years was 64%, 51%, and 44% for thiopurines and 56%, 30%, and 23% for methotrexate, respectively [p <0.001]. Propensity-score matching, including 303 patients [202 with thiopurines, 101 with methotrexate], demonstrated a higher rate of 5-year durability for thiopurines [40%] than methotrexate [18%; p <0.001]. Time to steroid dependency [p = 0.9], hospitalisation [p = 0.8], and surgery [p = 0.1] were comparable between groups. These outcomes reflect also shorter median time to biologics with methotrexate (2.2 [IQR 1.6-3.1 years) versus thiopurines (6.6 [2.4-8.5]; p = 0.02). The overall adverse events rate was higher with thiopurines [20%] than methotrexate [12%; p <0.001], including three lymphoma cases in males, although the difference was not significant [4.8 vs 0 cases/10 000 treatment-years, respectively; p = 0.6]. CONCLUSION Thiopurines demonstrated higher treatment durability than methotrexate but more frequent adverse events. However, disease outcomes were similar, partly due to more frequent escalation to biologics with methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ohad Atia
- Juliet Keidan Institute of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Chagit Friss
- Juliet Keidan Institute of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Shira Greenfeld
- Maccabi Health Services, Tel-Aviv, Israel and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Revital Kariv
- Maccabi Health Services, Tel-Aviv, Israel and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Saleh Daher
- Israel Defense Forces Medical Corps, Department of Medical Services, Jerusalem, Israel and Hadadsah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Institute of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Henit Yanai
- Division of Gastroenterology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel, and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | | | - Eran Matz
- Leumit Health Services, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Iris Dotan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tikva, Israel, and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Dan Turner
- Juliet Keidan Institute of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
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Predicting Hepatotoxicity Associated with Low-Dose Methotrexate Using Machine Learning. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12041599. [PMID: 36836131 PMCID: PMC9967588 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12041599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
An accurate prediction of the hepatotoxicity associated with low-dose methotrexate can provide evidence for a reasonable treatment choice. This study aimed to develop a machine learning-based prediction model to predict hepatotoxicity associated with low-dose methotrexate and explore the associated risk factors. Eligible patients with immune system disorders, who received low-dose methotrexate at West China Hospital between 1 January 2018, and 31 December 2019, were enrolled. A retrospective review of the included patients was conducted. Risk factors were selected from multiple patient characteristics, including demographics, admissions, and treatments. Eight algorithms, including eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), AdaBoost, CatBoost, Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), Tree-based Pipeline Optimization Tool (TPOT), Random Forest (RF), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN), were used to establish the prediction model. A total of 782 patients were included, and hepatotoxicity was detected in 35.68% (279/782) of the patients. The Random Forest model with the best predictive capacity was chosen to establish the prediction model (receiver operating characteristic curve 0.97, accuracy 64.33%, precision 50.00%, recall 32.14%, and F1 39.13%). Among the 15 risk factors, the highest score was a body mass index of 0.237, followed by age (0.198), the number of drugs (0.151), and the number of comorbidities (0.144). These factors demonstrated their importance in predicting hepatotoxicity associated with low-dose methotrexate. Using machine learning, this novel study established a predictive model for low-dose methotrexate-related hepatotoxicity. The model can improve medication safety in patients taking methotrexate in clinical practice.
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Ouellette S, Shah R, Razi S, Ashforth G, Wassef C. Fatal low-dose methotrexate toxicity: A case report and literature review. Dermatol Ther 2022; 35:e15945. [PMID: 36259229 DOI: 10.1111/dth.15945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapeutic agent that acts primarily by inhibiting the folic acid cycle. In addition to its application for treating malignancies, MTX is also used to treat chronic inflammatory diseases including psoriasis. Adverse effects have been reported even at low doses (up to 25 mg/week), and there is risk of toxicity in the form of myelosuppression, hepatotoxicity, or pulmonary fibrosis. Here, we report a case of a 67-year-old male with a past medical history of end stage renal disease on peritoneal dialysis and moderate-to-severe psoriasis with psoriatic arthritis presented with abdominal pain, diarrhea, rash, mucositis, and mucocutaneous ulcers and erosions. The patient was taking methotrexate 10 mg weekly without folic acid supplementation and was found to be pancytopenic. Despite treatment, the patient developed multiorgan failure and passed away after 16 days of hospitalization. Myelosuppression is considered the most serious side effect with the highest risk of mortality. Risk factors for toxicity include renal insufficiency, advanced age, lack of folate supplementation, drug interactions, and medication errors. Importantly, serum levels of MTX do not correlate with toxicity; therefore, folinic acid rescue therapy should be started as soon as MTX toxicity is suspected. MTX toxicity is rare with low dose, proper dose scheduling, and adherence to the recommended guidelines. It is imperative that physicians considering therapy with low dose MTX for dermatologic indications take into consideration a patient's risk factors for toxicity and monitor appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Ouellette
- Department of Dermatology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Rohan Shah
- Division of Dermatology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Gina Ashforth
- Department of Dermatology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Cindy Wassef
- Department of Dermatology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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Bramley D. What dose of folic acid to use with methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis? Drug Ther Bull 2021; 59:103-106. [PMID: 34162667 DOI: 10.1136/dtb.2020.000061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Diane Bramley
- Pharmacy, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Impact of MTHFR C677T and A1298C gene polymorphisms on MTX drug toxicity and efficacy profile of RA patients in North India. Meta Gene 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2020.100705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Vanni KMM, Lyu H, Solomon DH. Cytopenias among patients with rheumatic diseases using methotrexate: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 59:709-717. [PMID: 31504937 PMCID: PMC7188347 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to estimate the incidence of anaemia, leucopoenia, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia associated with MTX plus folic acid among patients with rheumatic diseases. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, PubMed and EMBASE through August 2016 for all randomized controlled clinical trials with a MTX monotherapy arm. We excluded randomized controlled clinical trials for cancer and included only double-blind studies that reported on haematologic adverse events. Studies were excluded if patients did not receive folic acid or leucovorin supplementation. Full text articles were assessed by two independent reviewers. Incidence estimates were calculated using random-effects models. RESULTS Of 1601 studies identified, 30 (1.87%) were included, representing 3858 patients; all had RA. Seventeen trials reported on anaemia (n = 2032), 17 reported on leucopoenia (n = 2220), 16 reported on neutropenia (n = 2202) and 12 reported on thrombocytopenia (n = 1507). The incidence for any anaemia was 2.55% (95% CI 0.60-5.47%), any leucopoenia 1.17% (95% CI 0.16-2.80%), any neutropenia 1.77% (95% CI 0.33-4.00%), and any thrombocytopenia 0.19% (95% CI 0.00-0.86%). Four cases of severe anaemia were reported, as defined by authors, along with three cases of severe neutropenia. No cases of severe leucopoenia, severe thrombocytopenia or pancytopenia were reported. CONCLUSION Cytopenias are an uncommon side effect of low-dose MTX with folic acid supplementation among RA patients. Further research is needed to reach a more precise estimate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Houchen Lyu
- Division of Rheumatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- China National Clinical Research Center for Musculoskeletal Diseases, China
- Department of Orthopaedics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Daniel H Solomon
- Division of Rheumatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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A Pilot Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Trial of High- Versus Low-Dose Weekly Folic Acid in People With Rheumatoid Arthritis Receiving Methotrexate. J Clin Rheumatol 2020; 25:284-287. [PMID: 30001258 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000000848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether reducing the dose of supplemental folic acid used in conjunction with methotrexate (MTX) therapy in people with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) improved disease control and/or increased MTX-related adverse effects. METHODS A randomized double-blind randomized controlled trial comparing 5 mg/wk and 0.8 mg/wk folic acid was undertaken. Rheumatoid arthritis patients on MTX for 3 months or more at a stable dose for 1 month or more were recruited. All participants had DAS28 of 3.2 or greater or required a change in therapy determined by the treating clinician. Disease activity, full blood count, liver function tests, red blood cell (RBC) folate, and RBC MTX polyglutamates were assessed at weeks 0, 4, 8, 16, and 24 along with reports of adverse events. RESULTS Forty participants were recruited. The mean (SD) change in RBC folate between week 0 and 24 was +87.9 (57.4) nmol/L in the high-dose group and -113.3 (65.7) nmol/L in the low-dose group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the change in DAS28 between the high- and low-dose groups at 24 weeks (-0.13 [95% confidence interval, -0.69 to 0.43] vs -0.25 [-0.87 to 0.37], respectively [p = 0.78]). There was no significant difference in MTX-related adverse effects between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS A reduction in RBC folate secondary to reduction in folic acid dose was not associated with a change in RA disease activity or MTX-related adverse effects. The prevention of MTX-related adverse effects remains the primary reason for coprescribing folic acid with MTX. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR12610000739011).
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Suzuki Y, Sugiyama N, Fukuma Y, Sugiyama N, Kokubo T. RETRACTED ARTICLE: Safety and effectiveness of high-dose methotrexate (over 8 mg/week) in 2838 Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A postmarketing surveillance report. Mod Rheumatol 2020; 30:vii-xviii. [DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2017.1304857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuo Suzuki
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Yuri Fukuma
- Medical Affairs, Pfizer Japan Inc., Tokyo, Japan
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The Protective Effects of Syzygium aromaticum Essential Oil Extract against Methotrexate Induced Hepatic and Renal Toxicity in Rats. JOURNAL OF PURE AND APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.22207/jpam.13.1.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Shao Y, Tan B, Shi J, Zhou Q. Methotrexate induces astrocyte apoptosis by disrupting folate metabolism in the mouse juvenile central nervous system. Toxicol Lett 2019; 301:146-156. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2018.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Suzuki Y, Sugiyama N, Fukuma Y, Sugiyama N, Kokubo T. Safety and effectiveness of high-dose methotrexate (over 8 mg/week) in 2838 Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a postmarketing surveillance report. Mod Rheumatol 2019; 30:24-35. [DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2018.1532483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuo Suzuki
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Yuri Fukuma
- Medical Affairs, Pfizer Japan Inc., Tokyo, Japan
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Side effects of methotrexate therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 158:502-516. [PMID: 30243154 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 292] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is used as an anchor disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) because of its potent efficacy and tolerability. MTX benefits a large number of RA patients but partially suffered from side effects. A variety of side effects can be associated with MTX when treating RA patients, from mild to severe or discontinuation of the treatment. In this report, we reviewed the possible side effects that MTX might cause from the most common gastrointestinal toxicity effects to less frequent malignant diseases. In order to achieve regimen with less side effects, the administration of MTX with appropriate dose and a careful pretreatment inspection is necessary. Further investigations are required when combining MTX with other drugs so as to enhance the efficacy and reduce side effects at the same time. The management of MTX treatment is also discussed to provide strategies for occurred side effects. Thus, this review will provide scholars with a comprehensive understanding the side effects of MTX administration by RA patients.
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Warren RB, Weatherhead SC, Smith CH, Exton LS, Mohd Mustapa MF, Kirby B, Yesudian PD. British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the safe and effective prescribing of methotrexate for skin disease 2016. Br J Dermatol 2017; 175:23-44. [PMID: 27484275 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.14816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R B Warren
- The Dermatology Centre, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M6 8HD, U.K
| | - S C Weatherhead
- Department of Dermatology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, U.K
| | - C H Smith
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, London, SE1 9RT, U.K
| | - L S Exton
- British Association of Dermatologists, Willan House, 4 Fitzroy Square, London, W1T 5HQ, U.K
| | - M F Mohd Mustapa
- British Association of Dermatologists, Willan House, 4 Fitzroy Square, London, W1T 5HQ, U.K
| | - B Kirby
- St Vincent's University Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin, Ireland
| | - P D Yesudian
- Glan Clwyd Hospital, Sarn Lane, Rhyl, LL18 5UJ, U.K
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Bello AE, Perkins EL, Jay R, Efthimiou P. Recommendations for optimizing methotrexate treatment for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Open Access Rheumatol 2017; 9:67-79. [PMID: 28435338 PMCID: PMC5386601 DOI: 10.2147/oarrr.s131668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) remains the cornerstone therapy for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), with well-established safety and efficacy profiles and support in international guidelines. Clinical and radiologic results indicate benefits of MTX monotherapy and combination with other agents, yet patients may not receive optimal dosing, duration, or route of administration to maximize their response to this drug. This review highlights best practices for MTX use in RA patients. First, to improve the response to oral MTX, a high initial dose should be administered followed by rapid titration. Importantly, this approach does not appear to compromise safety or tolerability for patients. Treatment with oral MTX, with appropriate dose titration, then should be continued for at least 6 months (as long as the patient experiences some response to treatment within 3 months) to achieve an accurate assessment of treatment efficacy. If oral MTX treatment fails due to intolerability or inadequate response, the patient may be "rescued" by switching to subcutaneous delivery of MTX. Consideration should also be given to starting with subcutaneous MTX given its favorable bioavailability and pharmacodynamic profile over oral delivery. Either initiation of subcutaneous MTX therapy or switching from oral to subcutaneous administration improves persistence with treatment. Upon transition from oral to subcutaneous delivery, MTX dosage should be maintained, rather than increased, and titration should be performed as needed. Similarly, if another RA treatment is necessary to control the disease, the MTX dosage and route of administration should be maintained, with titration as needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Randy Jay
- Arizona Arthritis & Rheumatology Associates, Phoenix, AZ
| | - Petros Efthimiou
- Division of Rheumatology, New York Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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Jo YK, Park MH, Choi H, Lee H, Park JM, Sim JJ, Chang C, Jeong KY, Kim HM. Enhancement of the Antitumor Effect of Methotrexate on Colorectal Cancer Cells via Lactate Calcium Salt Targeting Methionine Metabolism. Nutr Cancer 2017; 69:663-673. [PMID: 28353361 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2017.1299879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Romão VC, Lima A, Bernardes M, Canhão H, Fonseca JE. Three decades of low-dose methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis: can we predict toxicity? Immunol Res 2015; 60:289-310. [PMID: 25391609 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-014-8564-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is the anchor disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment. It is used in monotherapy and/or in combination with other synthetic or biological DMARDs, and is known to have the best cost-effectiveness and efficacy/toxicity ratios. However, toxicity is still a concern, with a significant proportion of patients interrupting long-term treatment due to the occurrence of MTX-related adverse drug reactions (ADRs), which are the main cause of drug withdrawal. Despite the extensive accumulated experience in the last three decades, it is still impossible in routine clinical practice to identify patients prone to develop MTX toxicity. While clinical and biological variables, including folate supplementation, partially help to minimize MTX-related ADRs, the advent of pharmacogenomics could provide further insight into risk stratification and help to optimize drug monitoring and long-term retention. In this paper, we aimed to review and summarize current data on low-dose MTX-associated toxicity, its prevention and predictors, keeping in mind practical RA clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco C Romão
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon Academic Medical Centre, Edifício Egas Moniz, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028, Lisbon, Portugal
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Dhir V, Sandhu A, Kaur J, Pinto B, Kumar P, Kaur P, Gupta N, Sood A, Sharma A, Sharma S. Comparison of two different folic acid doses with methotrexate--a randomized controlled trial (FOLVARI Study). Arthritis Res Ther 2015; 17:156. [PMID: 26063325 PMCID: PMC4483203 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-015-0668-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is reasonable evidence that folic acid 5–10 mg per week leads to reduction in methotrexate (MTX) toxicity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, this is based on studies conducted with lower MTX dosage than used currently. It is unclear whether higher doses of folic acid may be better in reducing toxicity. Methods This was a double-blind randomized controlled trial of 24 weeks duration. To be eligible, patients should have rheumatoid arthritis (1987 American College of Rheumatology criteria), be 18–75 years of age, not be on MTX and have active disease as defined by ‘Modified Disease Activity Score using three variables’ (DAS28(3)) > 3.2. MTX was started at 10 mg/week and escalated to 25 mg/week by 12 weeks. Folic acid was given at a dose of 10 mg (FA10) or 30 mg per week (FA30). Co-primary endpoints were incidence of toxicity (undesirable symptoms and laboratory abnormalities) and change in disease activity by 24 weeks. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were performed. Results Among 100 patients enrolled, 51 and 49 were randomized to FA10 and FA30 respectively. By 24 weeks, there were 6 patient withdrawals in either group and mean(±SD) dose of MTX was 22.8 ± 4.4 and 21.4 ± 4.6 mg per week (p = 0.1). Frequency of patients with undesirable symptoms was non-significantly lower by 7.4 % (95 % confidence interval −27.4 to 12.7 %) in FA10 compared to FA30. There was also no difference in frequency of transaminitis (>Upper limit of normal (ULN)) (42.6, 45.7 %, p = 0.7) or transminitis as per primary endpoint (>2xULN) (10.6, 8.7 %, p = 1.0) or cytopenias (4.3, 4.3 %, p = 0.9). There was no difference in the primary end-point of occurrence of any adverse effect (symptom or laboratory) in FA10 and FA30 (46.8, 54.3 %, p = 0.5). At 24 weeks, DAS28(3) declined in both groups by a similar extent (−1.1 ± 1.0, −1.3 ± 1.0, p = 0.2) and ‘European League Against Rheumatism’ good or moderate response occurred in 56.9 and 67.4 % (p = 0.3). Conclusions Even with the high doses of MTX used in current practice, there was no additional benefit (or harm) of a higher dose of folic acid (30 mg/week) over a usual dose (10 mg/week). Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01583959 Registered 15 March 2012
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Dhir
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
| | - Amit Sandhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
| | - Jasbinder Kaur
- Department of Biochemistry, Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32, Chandigarh, India.
| | - Benzeeta Pinto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
| | - Phani Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
| | - Prabhdeep Kaur
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
| | - Nidhi Gupta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
| | - Ankita Sood
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
| | - Aman Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
| | - Shefali Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160020, India.
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McDonald JWD, Wang Y, Tsoulis DJ, MacDonald JK, Feagan BG. Methotrexate for induction of remission in refractory Crohn's disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014; 2014:CD003459. [PMID: 25099640 PMCID: PMC7154581 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003459.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although corticosteroids are effective for induction of remission of Crohn's disease, many patients relapse when steroids are withdrawn or become steroid dependent. Furthermore, corticosteroids exhibit significant adverse effects. The success of methotrexate as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis led to its evaluation in patients with refractory Crohn's disease. Methotrexate has been studied for induction of remission of refractory Crohn's disease and has become the principal alternative to azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine therapy. This systematic review is an update of previously published Cochrane reviews. OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of methotrexate for induction of remission in patients with active Crohn's disease in the presence or absence of concomitant steroid therapy. SEARCH METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and the Cochrane IBD/FBD group specialized register from inception to June 9, 2014 for relevant studies. Conference proceedings and reference lists were also searched to identify additional studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials of methotrexate compared to placebo or an active comparator for treatment of active refractory Crohn's disease in adult patients (> 17 years) were considered for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The primary outcome was failure to enter remission and withdraw from steroids. Secondary outcomes included adverse events, withdrawal due to adverse events, serious adverse events and quality of life. We calculated the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for each outcome. Data were analyzed on an intention-to-treat basis. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess the methodological quality of included studies. The GRADE approach was used to assess the overall quality of evidence supporting the primary outcome. MAIN RESULTS Seven studies (495 patients) were included. Four studies were rated as low risk of bias. Three studies were rated as high risk of bias due to open label or single-blind designs. The seven studies differed with respect to participants, intervention, and outcomes to the extent that meta-analysis was considered to be inappropriate. GRADE analyses indicated that the quality of evidence was very low to low for most outcomes due to sparse data and inadequate blinding. Three small studies which employed low dose oral methotrexate showed no statistically significant difference in failure to induce remission between methotrexate and placebo or between methotrexate and 6-mercaptopurine. For the study using 15 mg/week of oral methotrexate 33% (5/15) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 11% (2/18) of placebo patients (RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.68 to 13.31). For the study using 12.5 mg/week of oral methotrexate 81% (21/26) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 77% (20/26) of placebo patients (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.39). This study also had an active comparator arm, 81% (21/26) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 59% (19/32) of 6-mercaptopurine patients (RR 1.36, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.92). For the active comparator study using 15 mg/week oral methotrexate, 20% (3/15) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 6% of 6-mercaptopurine patients (RR 3.20, 95% CI 0.37 to 27.49). This study also had a 5-ASA arm and found that methotrexate patients were significantly more likely to enter remission than 5-ASA patients. Twenty per cent (3/15) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 86% (6/7) of 5-ASA patients (RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.67). One small study which used a higher dose of intravenous or oral methotrexate (25 mg/week) showed no statistically significant difference between methotrexate and azathioprine. Forty-four per cent (12/27) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 37% of azathioprine patients (RR 1.20, 95% CI 0.63 to 2.29). Two studies found no statistically significant difference in failure to enter remission between the combination of infliximab and methotrexate and infliximab monotherapy. One small study utilized intravenous methotrexate (20 mg/week) for 5 weeks and then switched to oral (20 mg/week). Forty-five per cent (5/11) of patients in the combination group failed to enter remission compared to 62% of infliximab patients (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.31 to 1.69). The other study assessing combination therapy utilized subcutaneous methotrexate (maximum dose 25 mg/week). Twenty-four per cent (15/63) of patients in the combination group failed to enter remission compared to 22% (14/63) of infliximab patients (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.57 to 2.03). A large placebo-controlled study which employed a high dose of methotrexate intramuscularly showed a statistically significant benefit relative to placebo. Sixty-one per cent of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 81% of placebo patients (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.93; number needed to treat, NNT=5). Withdrawals due to adverse events were significantly more common in methotrexate patients than placebo in this study. Seventeen per cent of methotrexate patients withdrew due to adverse events compared to 2% of placebo patients (RR 8.00, 95% CI 1.09 to 58.51). The incidence of adverse events was significantly more common in methotrexate patients (63%, 17/27) than azathioprine patients (26%, 7/27) in one small study (RR 2.42, 95% CI 1.21 to 4.89). No other statistically significant differences in adverse events, withdrawals due to adverse events or serious adverse events were reported in any of the other placebo-controlled or active comparator studies. Common adverse events included nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, skin rash and headache. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is evidence from a single large randomized trial which suggests that intramuscular methotrexate (25 mg/week) provides a benefit for induction of remission and complete withdrawal from steroids in patients with refractory Crohn's disease. Lower dose oral methotrexate does not appear to provide any significant benefit relative to placebo or active comparator. However, these trials were small and further studies of oral methotrexate may be justified. Comparative studies of methotrexate to drugs such as azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine would require the randomization of large numbers of patients. The addition of methotrexate to infliximab therapy does not appear to provide any additional benefit over infliximab monotherapy. However these studies were relatively small and further research is needed to determine the role of methotrexate when used in conjunction with infliximab or other biological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John WD McDonald
- Robarts Research InstituteRobarts Clinical TrialsP.O. Box 5015100 Perth DriveLondonONCanadaN6A 5K8
| | - Yongjun Wang
- Robarts Research InstituteRobarts Clinical TrialsP.O. Box 5015100 Perth DriveLondonONCanadaN6A 5K8
| | - David J Tsoulis
- Robarts Research InstituteRobarts Clinical TrialsP.O. Box 5015100 Perth DriveLondonONCanadaN6A 5K8
| | - John K MacDonald
- Robarts Research InstituteRobarts Clinical TrialsP.O. Box 5015100 Perth DriveLondonONCanadaN6A 5K8
| | - Brian G Feagan
- Robarts Research InstituteRobarts Clinical TrialsP.O. Box 5015100 Perth DriveLondonONCanadaN6A 5K8
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Nitrous oxide-related postoperative nausea and vomiting depends on duration of exposure. Anesthesiology 2014; 120:1137-45. [PMID: 24401771 DOI: 10.1097/aln.0000000000000122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inclusion of nitrous oxide in the gas mixture has been implicated in postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in numerous studies. However, these studies have not examined whether duration of exposure was a significant covariate. This distinction might affect the future place of nitrous oxide in clinical practice. METHODS PubMed listed journals reporting trials in which patients randomized to a nitrous oxide or nitrous oxide-free anesthetic for surgery were included, where the incidence of PONV within the first 24 postoperative hours and mean duration of anesthesia was reported. Meta-regression of the log risk ratio for PONV with nitrous oxide (lnRR PONVN2O) versus duration was performed. RESULTS Twenty-nine studies in 27 articles met the inclusion criteria, randomizing 10,317 patients. There was a significant relationship between lnRR PONVN2O and duration (r = 0.51, P = 0.002). Risk ratio PONV increased 20% per hour of nitrous oxide after 45 min. The number needed to treat to prevent PONV by avoiding nitrous oxide was 128, 23, and 9 where duration was less than 1, 1 to 2, and over 2 h, respectively. The risk ratio for the overall effect of nitrous oxide on PONV was 1.21 (CIs, 1.04-1.40); P = 0.014. CONCLUSIONS This duration-related effect may be via disturbance of methionine and folate metabolism. No clinically significant effect of nitrous oxide on the risk of PONV exists under an hour of exposure. Nitrous oxide-related PONV should not be seen as an impediment to its use in minor or ambulatory surgery.
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Shea B, Swinden MV, Ghogomu ET, Ortiz Z, Katchamart W, Rader T, Bombardier C, Wells GA, Tugwell P. Folic acid and folinic acid for reducing side effects in patients receiving methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis. J Rheumatol 2014; 41:1049-60. [PMID: 24737913 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.130738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To perform a systematic review of the benefits and harms of folic acid and folinic acid in reducing the mucosal, gastrointestinal, hepatic, and hematologic side effects of methotrexate (MTX); and to assess whether folic or folinic acid supplementation has any effect on MTX benefit. METHODS We searched the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and US National Institutes of Health clinical trials registry from inception to March 2012. We selected all double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials in which adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were treated with MTX (dose ≤ 25 mg/week) concurrently with folate supplementation. We included only trials using low-dose folic or folinic acid (a starting dose of ≤ 7 mg weekly) because the high dose is no longer recommended or used. Data were extracted from the trials, and the trials were independently assessed for risk of bias using a predetermined set of criteria. RESULTS Six trials with 624 patients were eligible for inclusion. Most studies had low or unclear risk of bias for key domains. The quality of the evidence was rated as "moderate" for each outcome as assessed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) working group, with the exception of hematologic side effects, which were rated as "low." There was no significant heterogeneity between trials, including where folic acid and folinic acid studies were pooled. For patients supplemented with any form of exogenous folate (either folic or folinic acid) while receiving MTX therapy for RA, a 26% relative (9% absolute) risk reduction was seen for the incidence of gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.92; p = 0.008). Folic and folinic acid also appear to be protective against abnormal serum transaminase elevation caused by MTX, with a 76.9% relative (16% absolute) risk reduction (RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.34; p < 0.00001), as well as reducing patient withdrawal from MTX for any reason [60.8% relative (15.2% absolute) risk reduction, RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.53; p < 0.00001]. CONCLUSION The results support a protective effect of supplementation with either folic or folinic acid for patients with RA during treatment with MTX. There was a clinically important significant reduction shown in the incidence of GI side effects and hepatic dysfunction (as measured by elevated serum transaminase levels), as well as a clinically important significant reduction in discontinuation of MTX treatment for any reason.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverley Shea
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program.
| | - Michael V Swinden
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program
| | - Elizabeth Tanjong Ghogomu
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program
| | - Zulma Ortiz
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program
| | - Wanruchada Katchamart
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program
| | - Tamara Rader
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program
| | - Claire Bombardier
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program
| | - George A Wells
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program
| | - Peter Tugwell
- From the Bruyère Research Institute (BRI); Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand; Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group, Ottawa; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto; Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, and the Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program; Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.B. Shea, PhD, MSc, RN, BRI, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; M.V. Swinden, MBBS; E. Tanjong Ghogomu, MD, MSc, Centre for Global Health, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa; Z. Ortiz, MD, MSc, Epidemiological Research Center, National Academy of Medicine; W. Katchamart, MD, FRCP, MSc, Rheumatology Division, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University; T. Rader, MLIS, Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group; C. Bombardier, MD, FRCPC, Institute for Work and Health; G.A. Wells, PhD, MSc, Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; P. Tugwell, MD, FRCPC, MSc, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Population Health and Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa; and Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program
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The effect of folate supplementation on methotrexate efficacy and toxicity in psoriasis patients and folic acid use by dermatologists in the USA. Am J Clin Dermatol 2013; 14:155-61. [PMID: 23575550 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-013-0017-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methotrexate (MTX) is an effective treatment for psoriasis but its use is limited by its toxicity. Folate supplementation can be used to reduce the adverse effects of MTX, though this may impact efficacy. The frequency of folic acid supplementation is not well characterized. PURPOSE The objective of this study was to review the literature involving the use of folate in patients (in particular those with psoriasis) treated with MTX and analyze trends in folic acid use. METHODS We searched PubMed from 1 May 1989 through 1 April 2012 using the terms 'folic acid,' 'folinic acid,' 'folate,' 'supplementation,' and 'methotrexate.' We also used the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) database to collect data regarding trends in MTX use and folic acid supplementation by physicians in the USA from 1993 through 2009. We assessed data including the number of MTX visits, rate of folic acid use, diagnoses, physician specialty, and demographics of patients. We used linear regression to analyze the change in folic acid use over time. RESULTS Twenty-six published trials were included addressing folic acid supplementation with MTX. The majority found a benefit to folic acid supplementation, but there were only seven studies in psoriasis. Dermatologists were among the highest prescribers of MTX, and psoriasis was commonly treated with MTX. Folic acid supplementation significantly increased over this time period (p < 0.0001). However, dermatologists ranked lowest for their folate use, co-prescribing folate to only 9.1 % of MTX-treated patients. LIMITATIONS In contrast to rheumatoid arthritis, there is a scarcity of literature describing the effect of folate on MTX toxicity and efficacy in psoriasis patients. NAMCS data only included outpatient visits to non-federally employed physicians, and there is the possibility of healthcare providers not documenting over-the-counter folic acid usage. Lastly, doses of MTX and folic acid were not recorded in the database. CONCLUSION Dermatologists were the least likely specialists to supplement MTX with folic acid. The evidence for supplementation of folic acid is mixed. The literature confirms a reduction in the adverse effects of MTX but less strongly that there may be a reduction in efficacy too. Keeping in mind the potential for folate to reduce MTX efficacy, folic acid supplementation should be considered in MTX-treated patients.
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Shea B, Swinden MV, Tanjong Ghogomu E, Ortiz Z, Katchamart W, Rader T, Bombardier C, Wells GA, Tugwell P. Folic acid and folinic acid for reducing side effects in patients receiving methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013; 2013:CD000951. [PMID: 23728635 PMCID: PMC7046011 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd000951.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methotrexate (MTX) is a disease modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used as a first line agent for treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Pharmacologically, it is classified as an antimetabolite due to its antagonistic effect on folic acid metabolism. Many patients treated with MTX experience mucosal, gastrointestinal, hepatic or haematologic side effects. Supplementation with folic or folinic acid during treatment with MTX may ameliorate these side effects. OBJECTIVES To identify trials of supplementation with folic acid or folinic acid during MTX therapy for rheumatoid arthritis and to assess the benefits and harms of folic acid and folinic acid (a) in reducing the mucosal, gastrointestinal (GI), hepatic and haematologic side effects of MTX, and (b) whether or not folic or folinic acid supplementation has any effect on MTX benefit. SEARCH METHODS We originally performed MEDLINE searches, from January 1966 to June 1999. During the update of this review, we searched additional databases and used a sensitive search strategy designed to retrieve all trials on folic acid or folinic acid for rheumatoid arthritis from 1999 up to 2 March 2012. SELECTION CRITERIA We selected all double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trials (RCTs) in which adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis were treated with MTX (at a dose equal to or less than 25 mg/week) concurrently with folate supplementation. In this update of the review we only included trials using 'low dose' folic or folinic acid (a starting dose of ≤ 7 mg weekly). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data were extracted from the trials, and the trials were independently assessed for risk of bias using a predetermined set of criteria. MAIN RESULTS Six trials with 624 patients were eligible for inclusion. Most studies had low or unclear risk of bias for key domains. The quality of the evidence was rated as 'moderate' for each outcome as assessed by GRADE, with the exception of haematologic side effects which were rated as 'low'. There was no significant heterogeneity between trials, including where folic acid and folinic acid studies were pooled.For patients supplemented with any form of exogenous folate (either folic or folinic acid) whilst on MTX therapy for rheumatoid arthritis, a 26% relative (9% absolute) risk reduction was seen for the incidence of GI side effects such as nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.92; P = 0.008). Folic and folinic acid also appear to be protective against abnormal serum transaminase elevation caused by MTX, with a 76.9% relative (16% absolute) risk reduction (RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.34; P < 0.00001), as well as reducing patient withdrawal from MTX for any reason (60.8% relative (15.2% absolute) risk reduction, RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.53; P < 0.00001).We analysed the effect of folic or folinic acid on the incidence of stomatitis / mouth sores, and whilst showing a trend towards reduction in risk, the results were not statistically significant (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.06)It was not possible to draw meaningful conclusions on the effect of folic or folinic acid on haematologic side effects of methotrexate due to small numbers of events and poor reporting of this outcome in included trials.It does not appear that supplementation with either folic or folinic acid has a statistically significant effect on the efficacy of MTX in treating RA (as measured by RA disease activity parameters such as tender and swollen joint counts, or physician's global assessment scores). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The results support a protective effect of supplementation with either folic or folinic acid for patients with rheumatoid arthritis during treatment with MTX.There was a significant reduction shown in the incidence of GI side effects, hepatic dysfunction (asmeasured by elevated serum transaminase levels) as well as a significant reduction in discontinuation of MTX treatment for any reason. A trend towards a reduction in stomatitis was demonstrated however this did not reach statistical significance.This updated review with its focus on lower doses of folic acid and folinic acid and updated assessment of risk of bias aimed to give a more precise and more clinically relevant estimate of the benefit of folate supplementation for patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverley Shea
- CIET, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
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McDonald JWD, Tsoulis DJ, Macdonald JK, Feagan BG. Methotrexate for induction of remission in refractory Crohn's disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012; 12:CD003459. [PMID: 23235598 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003459.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although corticosteroids are effective for induction of remission of Crohn's disease, many patients relapse when steroids are withdrawn or become steroid dependent. Furthermore, corticosteroids exhibit significant adverse effects. The success of methotrexate as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis led to its evaluation in patients with refractory Crohn's disease. Methotrexate has been studied for induction of remission of refractory Crohn's disease and has become the principal alternative to azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine therapy. This systematic review is an update of a previously published Cochrane review. OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of methotrexate for induction of remission in patients with active Crohn's disease in the presence or absence of concomitant steroid therapy. SEARCH METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL and the Cochrane IBD/FBD group specialized register from inception to June 27, 2012 for relevant studies. Conference proceedings and reference lists were also searched to identify additional studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials of methotrexate compared to placebo or an active comparator for treatment of active refractory Crohn's disease in adult patients (> 17 years) were considered for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The primary outcome was failure to failure to enter remission and withdrawal from steroids. Secondary outcomes included adverse events, withdrawal due to adverse events, serious adverse events and quality of life. We calculated the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for each outcome. Data were analyzed on an intention to treat basis. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess the methodological quality of included studies. The GRADE approach was used to assess the overall quality of evidence supporting the primary outcome. MAIN RESULTS Seven studies (495 patients) were included. Four studies were rated as low risk of bias. Three studies were rated as high risk of bias due to open label or single-blind designs. The seven studies differed with respect to participants, intervention, and outcomes to the extent that it was considered to be inappropriate to pool the data for meta-analysis. Three small studies which employed low doses of oral methotrexate showed no statistically significant difference in failure to induce remission between methotrexate and placebo or between methotrexate and 6-mercaptopurine. For the study using 15 mg/week of oral methotrexate 33% (5/15) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 11% (2/18) of placebo patients (RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.68 to 13.31). For the study using 12.5 mg/week of oral methotrexate 81% (21/26) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 77% (20/26) of placebo patients (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.39). This study also had an active comparator arm, 81% (21/26) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 59% (19/32) of 6-mercaptopurine patients (RR 1.36, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.92). For the active comparator study using 15 mg/week oral methotrexate, 20% (3/15) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 6% of 6-mercaptopurine patients (RR 3.20, 95% CI 0.37 to 27.49). This study also had a 5-ASA arm and found that methotrexate patients were significantly more likely to enter remission than 5-ASA patients. Twenty per cent (3/15) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 86% (6/7) of 5-ASA patients (RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.67). One small study which used a higher dose of intravenous or oral methotrexate (25 mg/week) showed no statistically significant difference between methotrexate and azathioprine. Forty-four per cent (12/27) of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 37% of azathioprine patients (RR 1.20, 95% CI 0.63 to 2.29). Two studies found no statistically significant difference in failure to enter remission between the combination of infliximab and methotrexate and infliximab monotherapy. One small study utilized intravenous methotrexate (20 mg/week) for 5 weeks and then switched to oral (20 mg/week). Forty-five per cent (5/11) of patients in the combination group failed to enter remission compared to 62% of infliximab patients (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.31 to 1.69) The other study assessing combination therapy utilized subcutaneous methotrexate (maximum dose 25 mg/week). Twenty-four per cent (15/63) of patients in the combination group failed to enter remission compared to 22% (14/63) of infliximab patients (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.57 to 2.03). A large placebo-controlled study which employed a high dose of methotrexate intramuscularly showed a statistically significant benefit relative to placebo. Sixty-one per cent of methotrexate patients failed to enter remission compared to 81% of placebo patients (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.93; number needed to treat, NNT=5). Withdrawals due to adverse events were significantly more common in methotrexate patients than placebo in this study. Seventeen per cent of methotrexate patients withdrew due to adverse events compared to 2% of placebo patients (RR 8.00, 95% CI 1.09 to 58.51). The incidence of adverse events was significantly more common in methotrexate patients (63%, 17/27) than azathioprine patients (26%, 7/27) in one small study (RR 2.42, 95% CI 1.21 to 4.89). No other statistically significant differences in adverse events, withdrawals due to adverse events or serious adverse events were reported in any of the other placebo-controlled or active comparator studies. Common adverse events included nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, skin rash and headache. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is evidence from a single large randomized trial which suggests that intramuscular methotrexate (25 mg/week) provides a benefit for induction of remission and complete withdrawal from steroids in patients with refractory Crohn's disease. Lower dose oral methotrexate does not appear to provide any significant benefit relative to placebo or active comparator. However, these trials were small and further studies of oral methotrexate may be justified. Comparative studies of methotrexate to drugs such as azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine would require the randomization of large numbers of patients. The addition of methotrexate to infliximab therapy does not appear to provide any additional benefit over infiximab monotherapy. However these studies were relatively small and further research is needed to determine the role of methotrexate when used in conjunction with infliximab or other biological therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W D McDonald
- Robarts Clinical Trials, Robarts Research Institute, London, Canada.
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Pedrazas CHS, Azevedo MNLD, Torres SR. Oral events related to low-dose methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Braz Oral Res 2011; 24:368-73. [PMID: 20877977 DOI: 10.1590/s1806-83242010000300018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2010] [Accepted: 04/26/2010] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Low-dose methotrexate (MTX) is frequently used for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). High doses of MTX frequently produce side effects. The aim of this study was to explore oral complications of low-dose MTX therapy in a population of RA patients. This is a cross-sectional study in which oral examination was performed on a population of RA patients. Patients undergoing MTX therapy (5-20 mg weekly) for at least six months were included in the study group, and RA patients being treated under another regimen were used as controls. The frequency of oral lesions was compared between groups. The chi-square test was used to compare frequencies. Relative risk (RR) and its confidence interval (CI) were established. Significance level was set at 0.05. Twenty-eight RA patients on a low-dose MTX regimen and 21 controls were enrolled in the study. Oral lesions were found in 22 patients (78.6%) undergoing MTX therapy, and in 5 patients (23.8%) undergoing other therapies (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences regarding age, gender or dosage. The most common oral events observed in patients in the MTX group were ulcerative/erosive lesions (60.7%) and candidiasis (10.7%). Patients in the control group presented lower prevalence of the same lesions (p < 0.001). The RR for developing oral lesions was 11.73 (CI 2.57 - 58.98), with low-dose MTX therapy. In conclusion, the prevalence of oral mucosa lesions in RA patients receiving low doses of MTX therapy is higher than in RA patients not receiving the drug.
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Conklin LS, Oliva-Hemker M. Nutritional considerations in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2010; 4:305-17. [PMID: 20528118 DOI: 10.1586/egh.10.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Nutrition is a critical part of the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in children and adults. Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies are common at the time of diagnosis and may persist throughout the course of the disease. There are a number of similarities with regards to the nutritional complications and the approach to nutritional management in IBD in both children and adults, but there are also important differences. Growth failure, pubertal delay and the need for corticosteroid-sparing regimens are of higher importance in pediatrics. In the pediatric population, exclusive enteral nutrition may be equivalent to corticosteroids in inducing remission in acute Crohn's disease, and may have benefits over corticosteroids in children. Adherence with exclusive enteral nutrition is better in children than in adults. Iron deficiency anemia is an important problem for adults and children with IBD. Intravenous iron administration may be superior to oral iron supplementation. Ensuring adequate bone health is another critical component of nutritional management in IBD, but guidelines for screening and therapeutic interventions for low bone mineral density are lacking in children.
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Visser K, Katchamart W, Loza E, Martinez-Lopez JA, Salliot C, Trudeau J, Bombardier C, Carmona L, van der Heijde D, Bijlsma JWJ, Boumpas DT, Canhao H, Edwards CJ, Hamuryudan V, Kvien TK, Leeb BF, Martín-Mola EM, Mielants H, Müller-Ladner U, Murphy G, Østergaard M, Pereira IA, Ramos-Remus C, Valentini G, Zochling J, Dougados M. Multinational evidence-based recommendations for the use of methotrexate in rheumatic disorders with a focus on rheumatoid arthritis: integrating systematic literature research and expert opinion of a broad international panel of rheumatologists in the 3E Initiative. Ann Rheum Dis 2008; 68:1086-93. [PMID: 19033291 PMCID: PMC2689523 DOI: 10.1136/ard.2008.094474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 307] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To develop evidence-based recommendations for the use of methotrexate in daily clinical practice in rheumatic disorders. Methods: 751 rheumatologists from 17 countries participated in the 3E (Evidence, Expertise, Exchange) Initiative of 2007–8 consisting of three separate rounds of discussions and Delphi votes. Ten clinical questions concerning the use of methotrexate in rheumatic disorders were formulated. A systematic literature search in Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and 2005–7 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism meeting abstracts was conducted. Selected articles were systematically reviewed and the evidence was appraised according to the Oxford levels of evidence. Each country elaborated a set of national recommendations. Finally, multinational recommendations were formulated and agreement among the participants and the potential impact on their clinical practice was assessed. Results: A total of 16 979 references was identified, of which 304 articles were included in the systematic reviews. Ten multinational key recommendations on the use of methotrexate were formulated. Nine recommendations were specific for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), including the work-up before initiating methotrexate, optimal dosage and route, use of folic acid, monitoring, management of hepatotoxicity, long-term safety, mono versus combination therapy and management in the perioperative period and before/during pregnancy. One recommendation concerned methotrexate as a steroid-sparing agent in other rheumatic diseases. Conclusions: Ten recommendations for the use of methotrexate in daily clinical practice focussed on RA were developed, which are evidence based and supported by a large panel of rheumatologists, enhancing their validity and practical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Visser
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Rheumatology, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Prey S, Paul C. Effect of folic or folinic acid supplementation on methotrexate-associated safety and efficacy in inflammatory disease: a systematic review. Br J Dermatol 2008; 160:622-8. [PMID: 18945303 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.08876.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methotrexate is a folic acid antagonist widely used for the treatment of inflammatory disorders for more than 50 years. Methotrexate is a standard systemic therapy for severe psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. Folic acid supplementation has been advocated to limit the toxicity of methotrexate on blood cells, gastrointestinal tract and liver. However, there is still controversy regarding the usefulness of folic acid supplementation. OBJECTIVES We sought to assess the evidence for the efficacy of folic acid supplementation in patients treated with methotrexate for inflammatory diseases. We also investigated whether folic acid supplementation may decrease the efficacy of methotrexate. METHODS Cochrane and MEDLINE databases were systematically searched. Randomized controlled trials in patients treated with methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis with or without arthritis were included. Study selection, assessment of methodological quality, data extraction and analysis were carried out by two independent researchers. We selected double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trials. Analysis was performed for each subgroup of side-effects: gastrointestinal, mucocutaneous, haematological and hepatic. RESULTS Six randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria, with a total sample of 648 patients. There were 257 patients in the placebo group, 198 patients treated with folic acid, and 193 patients treated with folinic acid. The statistical analysis showed a significant reduction of 35.8% of hepatic side-effects induced by methotrexate for patients with supplementation with folic or folinic acid (95% confidence interval -0.467 to -0.248). There was no statistical difference for mucocutaneous and gastrointestinal side-effects although there was a trend in favour of supplementation. The effect of supplementation on haematological side-effects could not be assessed accurately due to a low incidence of these events in the population studied. We were unable to analyse the effect of supplementation on the effectiveness of methotrexate, as markers of activity used in each study were not comparable. CONCLUSIONS Supplementation with folic acid is an effective measure to reduce hepatic adverse effects associated with methotrexate treatment. There is no difference between folinic acid and folic acid, but the lower cost of the latter promotes its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Prey
- Department of Dermatology, Paul Sabatier University and Purpan Hospital, 31 059 Toulouse cedex 9, France.
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Stamp L, Roberts R, Kennedy M, Barclay M, O'Donnell J, Chapman P. The use of low dose methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis - are we entering a new era of therapeutic drug monitoring and pharmacogenomics? Biomed Pharmacother 2006; 60:678-87. [PMID: 17071051 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2006.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2006] [Accepted: 09/22/2006] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is one of the most commonly used medications in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It has proven efficacy as a sole agent as well as in combination with other disease modifying anti-rheumatic agents (DMARDs) including the newer biological agents. MTX is generally well tolerated although there are a number of potentially serious adverse effects. Of these, haematopoietic suppression, hepatotoxicity and pulmonary toxicity are the more severe and patients are therefore required to have appropriate monitoring while they remain on MTX. In the past, attempts at therapeutic drug monitoring using serum MTX concentrations have been unsuccessful. However, MTX is taken into red blood cells (RBC) where up to four glutamates are added to form MTX polyglutamates (MTXPG(n)). More recently it has been suggested that higher RBC MTXPG(3-5) concentrations may be associated with improved disease control. Genetic variations in enzymes involved in the uptake of MTX into cells and its metabolism are also being examined for their ability to predict drug response and potential for adverse events. While it is unlikely that a single genetic variant will predict efficacy or toxicity there is preliminary evidence that a "pharmacogenetic index" that takes into account the effects of multiple genetic variants maybe useful. Although in their infancy at present, both therapeutic drug monitoring using MTXPG concentrations and pharmacogenomics of MTX may prove useful in the future and are worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Stamp
- Department of Medicine, Christchurch School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Otago, P. O. Box 4345, Christchurch, New Zealand.
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Pavy S, Constantin A, Pham T, Gossec L, Maillefert JF, Cantagrel A, Combe B, Flipo RM, Goupille P, Le Loët X, Mariette X, Puéchal X, Schaeverbeke T, Sibilia J, Tebib J, Wendling D, Dougados M. Methotrexate therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: clinical practice guidelines based on published evidence and expert opinion. Joint Bone Spine 2006; 73:388-95. [PMID: 16626993 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2006.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2006] [Accepted: 01/25/2006] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop clinical practice guidelines for the use of methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), using the evidence-based approach and expert opinion. METHODS A scientific committee used a Delphi procedure to select five questions, which formed the basis for developing recommendations. Evidence providing answers to the five questions was sought in the Cochrane databases, PubMed, and proceedings of meetings of the French Society for Rheumatology, European League Against Rheumatism, and American College of Rheumatology. Using this evidence, a group of rheumatologists developed and validated the recommendations. For each recommendation, the level of evidence and the extent of agreement among experts were specified. RESULTS The recommendations were as follows: 1: The starting dosage for methotrexate in patients with RA should not be less than 10 mg/week and should be determined based on disease severity and patient-related factors; 2: When a patient with RA shows an inadequate response to methotrexate, the dosage should be increased at intervals of 6 weeks, up to 20 mg/week, according to tolerance and patient-related factors; 3: When starting methotrexate treatment in a patient with RA, preference should be given to the oral route. A switch to the intramuscular or subcutaneous route should be considered in patients with poor compliance, inadequate effectiveness, or gastrointestinal side effects; 4: At present, there is no evidence indicating that a change in methotrexate dosage is in order when a TNF antagonist is given concomitantly; 5: The investigations that are mandatory before starting methotrexate therapy in a patient with RA consist of a full blood cell count, serum transaminase levels, serum creatinine with computation of creatinine clearance, and a chest radiograph. In addition, serological tests for the hepatitis viruses B and C and a serum albumin assay are recommended. In patients with a history of respiratory disease or current respiratory symptoms, lung function tests with determination of the diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide are recommended; 6: Investigations that are mandatory for monitoring methotrexate therapy in patients with RA consist of full blood cell counts and serum transaminase and creatinine assays. These tests should be obtained at least once a month for the first 3 months then every 4-12 weeks; 7: Folate supplementation can be given routinely to patients treated with methotrexate for RA. In practice, a minimal dosage of 5 mg of folic acid once a week, at a distance from the methotrexate dose, is appropriate; 8: In the event of respiratory symptoms possibly related to methotrexate toxicity, the drug must be stopped and symptom severity evaluated. Should evidence of serious disease be found, the patient should be admitted immediately or advice from a pulmonologist should be obtained immediately. CONCLUSION Recommendations about methotrexate therapy for RA were developed. These recommendations should help to improve practice uniformity and, ultimately, to improve the management of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Pavy
- Service de rhumatologie A, CHU Cochin, 27, rue du Faubourg-Saint-Jacques, 75014 Paris, France
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Strober BE, Menon K. Folate supplementation during methotrexate therapy for patients with psoriasis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2005; 53:652-9. [PMID: 16198787 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2005.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2005] [Revised: 05/30/2005] [Accepted: 06/06/2005] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Methotrexate is a folate antagonist that is a well-established therapy for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. In some patients, methotrexate is associated with significant side effects and toxicity. Folate supplementation is often used to ameliorate methotrexate-associated side effects and toxicities. We sought to demonstrate that folate supplementation during methotrexate therapy reduces both toxicity and side effects without compromising efficacy. A MEDLINE search of the search terms "methotrexate," "folic acid," "folinic acid," and "leucovorin" was performed and literature relevant to the use of folates as a supplement to methotrexate was reviewed. According to studies reviewed, the use of folate supplements in patients treated with methotrexate reduces the incidence of hepatotoxicity and gastrointestinal intolerance without impairing the efficacy of methotrexate. Both folic acid and folinic acid are equally effective; however, folic acid is more cost effective. It must be noted that there are relatively few studies that have addressed folate supplementation with the use of methotrexate for the treatment of psoriasis. After examining the available data from the literature and drawing from clinical experience, we advise folate supplementation for every patient who receives methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce E Strober
- Department of Dermatology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA.
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Harten P. Folsäure zur Reduktion der Methotrexat-Toxizität. Z Rheumatol 2005; 64:353-8. [PMID: 15965822 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-005-0638-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2004] [Accepted: 06/16/2004] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methotrexate is considered to have the best ratio of efficacy to toxicity of the disease modifying antirheumatic drugs. Recently it has been shown to enhance the life expectancy of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Some 30-60% of RA patients discontinue MTX treatment within 1 year because of side-effects. In this review, the current data about supplementation with folate or folinic acid and their effect on the toxicity and efficacy of low-dose methotrexate therapy are analysed. METHODS A Medline search was performed using "folate", "folic acid", "folinic acid", "homocysteine", "methotrexate", "cardiovascular", "heart infarction" and "rheumatoid arthritis" as search terms. The relevant literature was reviewed and other papers referred to as references were explored. CONCLUSION Both folate and folinic acid reduce methotrexate toxicity and the discontinuation rate, and decrease methotrexate-induced hyperhomocysteinemia. Folate is less expensive, more secure and easier to handle than folinic acid. The efficacy of methotrexate probably decreases slightly, but the benefit outweighs the risk. Folate supplementation should, therefore, be routinely prescribed to every patient taking low-dose methotrexate.
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Alfadhli AAF, McDonald JWD, Feagan BG. Methotrexate for induction of remission in refractory Crohn's disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2005:CD003459. [PMID: 15674908 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003459.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although corticosteroids are effective for induction of remission of Crohn's disease, approximately 20% of patients who respond relapse when steroids are withdrawn and become steroid dependent (Binder 1985). Furthermore, corticosteroids exhibit significant adverse effects. The success of methotrexate as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis led to its evaluation in patients with refractory Crohn's disease. Methotrexate has been studied for induction of remission of refractory Crohn's disease and has become the principal alternative to azathioprine/6MP therapy. The evidence for its effectiveness has not been subjected to a systematic review. OBJECTIVES To conduct a systematic review of the evidence for effectiveness of methotrexate for induction of remission in patients with active Crohn's disease in the presence and absence of concomitant steroid therapy. SEARCH STRATEGY A computer-assisted search of MEDLINE and EMBASE for relevant studies published in English, French, Spanish, Italian and German between 1966 and July 2004. Manual searches of reference lists from potentially relevant papers were performed to identify additional studies. The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and the IBD Review Group Specialized Trials Register were also searched. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials involving patients of age > 17 years with refractory Crohn's disease defined by conventional clinical, radiological and endoscopic criteria, which was categorized as being active (Crohn's disease activity index >150). OUTCOME MEASURES The outcome measure was the rate of induction of remission and complete withdrawal from steroids in the treatment and control groups after > 16 weeks of treatment. A secondary outcome was induction of remission with reduction in steroid dose of at least 50%. Selection of trials: The results of the searches above were reviewed independently by two observers and relevant studies selected according to the predefined selection criteria. Any disagreement among reviewers was resolved by consensus. The same two reviewers assessed the methodological quality of each trial (details of randomization method, including whether intention-to-treat analysis was possible from the published data, number of patients lost to follow-up, and if a blinded outcome assessment was used). A standard data extraction form was used. Appropriateness of combining results: Trials were first reviewed to assess the clinical comparability of trial protocols and study populations. MAIN RESULTS Five randomized trials were identified. The five studies differed with respect to participants, intervention, and outcomes to the extent that it was considered to be inappropriate to combine the data statistically. Three small studies which employed low doses of methotrexate orally showed no statistically significant difference between methotrexate and placebo/control medication treated patients. One small study which used a higher dose of intravenous/oral methotrexate showed no statistically significant difference between methotrexate and azathioprine. A larger study which employed a higher dose of methotrexate intramuscularly showed substantial benefit (number needed to treat, NNT=5). Adverse effects were more common with high dose intramuscular methotrexate therapy than with placebo. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is evidence from a single large randomized trial on which to recommend the use of methotrexate 25 mg intramuscularly weekly for induction of remission and complete withdrawal from steroids in patients with refractory Crohn's disease. Although adverse effects were more common than with placebo, they were not severe. There is no evidence on which to base a recommendation for use of lower dose oral methotrexate.
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Abstract
Over the past decade methotrexate has emerged as a new treatment for chronically active Crohn's disease. Although controlled trials to compare the relative efficacy and safety of azathioprine and methotrexate in therapy-resistant patients are desirable, these studies will be difficult, if not impossible, to conduct because of the relatively small differences in potency and tolerability between these agents. A more productive area for future investigations is to explore the use of these drugs in combination with infliximab and other biologic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian G Feagan
- University of Western Ontario, 100 Perth Drive, London, ON N6A 5K8, Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Sosin
- Department of Haematology, Sandwell General Hospital, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B71 4HJ
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Alfadhli AA, McDonald JW, Feagan BG. Methotrexate for induction of remission in refractory Crohn's disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2003:CD003459. [PMID: 12535475 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although corticosteroids are effective for induction of remission of Crohn's disease, approximately 20% of patients who respond relapse when steroids are withdrawn and become steroid dependent (Binder 1985). Furthermore, corticosteroids exhibit significant adverse effects. The success of methotrexate as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis led to its evaluation in patients with refractory Crohn's disease. Methotrexate has been studied for induction of remission of refractory Crohn's disease and has become the principal alternative to azathioprine/6MP therapy. The evidence for its effectiveness has not been subjected to a systematic review. OBJECTIVES To conduct a systematic review of the evidence for effectiveness of methotrexate for induction of remission in patients with active Crohn's disease in the presence and absence of concomitant steroid therapy. SEARCH STRATEGY A computer-assisted search of MEDLINE and EMBASE for relevant studies published in English, French, Spanish, Italian and German between 1966 and June 2002. Manual searches of reference lists from potentially relevant papers were performed to identify additional studies. The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and the IBD Review Group Specialized Trials Register were also searched. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials involving patients of age > 17 years with refractory Crohn's disease defined by conventional clinical, radiological and endoscopic criteria, which was categorized as being active (Crohn's disease activity index >150). OUTCOME MEASURES The outcome measure was the rate of induction of remission and complete withdrawal from steroids in the treatment and control groups after 16 weeks of treatment. A secondary outcome was induction of remission with reduction in steroid dose of at least 50%. Selection of trials: The results of the searches above were reviewed independently by two observers and relevant studies selected according to the predefined selection criteria. Any disagreement among reviewers was resolved by consensus. The same two reviewers assessed the methodological quality of each trial (details of randomization method, including whether intention-to-treat analysis was possible from the published data, number of patients lost to follow-up, and if a blinded outcome assessment was used). A standard data extraction form was used. Appropriateness of combining results: Trials were first reviewed to assess the clinical comparability of trial protocols and study populations. MAIN RESULTS Three randomized placebo-controlled trials were identified. The three studies differed with respect to participants, intervention, and outcomes to the extent that it was considered to be inappropriate to combine the data statistically. Two studies which employed low doses of methotrexate orally showed no statistically significant difference between methotrexate and placebo treated patients, and one which employed a higher dose intramuscularly showed substantial benefit (number needed to treat, NNT=5). Adverse effects were more common with high dose intramuscular methotrexate therapy than with placebo. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS There is evidence from a single large randomized trial on which to recommend the use of methotrexate 25 mg intramuscularly weekly for induction of remission and complete withdrawal from steroids in patients with refractory Crohn's disease. Although adverse effects are more common than with placebo, they were not severe. There is no evidence on which to base a recommendation for use of lower dose oral methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Alfadhli
- Medicine, 5-OF 12 LHSC - UC, 339 Windermere Road, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5A5
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Cutolo M, Sulli A, Pizzorni C, Seriolo B, Straub RH. Anti-inflammatory mechanisms of methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2001; 60:729-35. [PMID: 11454634 PMCID: PMC1753808 DOI: 10.1136/ard.60.8.729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 263] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M Cutolo
- Division of Rheumatology Department of Internal Medicine University of Genova Viale Benedetto XV,6 16136 Genova, Italy.
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