Optimising low‐dose methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis—A review. Issue 10 (9th August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lucas, Catherine J.; Dimmitt, Simon B.; Martin, Jennifer H.
• Is Part Of: British journal of clinical pharmacology. Volume 85:Issue 10(2019)
• Page Start: 2228
• Page End: 2234
• Publication Date: 2019-08-09
• Subjects: clinical pharmacology -- methotrexate -- pharmacodynamics -- pharmacokinetics -- prescribing -- rheumatoid arthritis; Pharmacology -- Periodicals; Drugs -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14057
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-5251

Abstract

Abstract : Methotrexate at low doses (5–25 mg/week) is first‐line therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. However, there is inter‐ and intrapatient variability in response, with contribution of variability in concentrations of active polyglutamate metabolites, associated with clinical efficacy and toxicity. Prescribing remains heterogeneous across population groups, disease states and regimens. This review examines current knowledge of dose–response of oral methotrexate in the setting of rheumatoid arthritis, and how this could help inform dosage regimens.