Second Course of Methotrexate May Be Effective Despite Ineffective First Course
Saturday February 25, 2006
Rheumatoid arthritis patients who have not responded to their first course of methotrexate, especially if the first course was a low-dose (10 mg or less per week), may still derive benefit from a second course of methotrexate.
Arthritis Research and Therapy published study results from researchers at the Medical University of Vienna. The researchers concluded that re-treatment with methotrexate may be a treatment option of value, especially for patients who cannot use other disease-modifying medications, especially the newer biologic drugs.
In the study, 79 patients had a second methotrexate treatment that lasted at least a year, having stopped their first treatment for side effects or ineffectiveness. 53.2 percent found their second course with methotrexate effective.
Related Resources:
- The Facts of Methotrexate
- Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Methotrexate: 10 Things You Should Know
- Arthritis Drugs: What Are My Options?
- Is Methotrexate Injection Better Than Oral Methotrexate?
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Comments
I would like to regain my muscle mass in my legs, arms & abs, what type of low impact work outs can I do to achieve my goal. I was diagnosed with RA 2 years ago the pain of this disease has been horrific I never knew your joints could hurt! It left me depressed, weight loss 28 lbs & wondering why did this happen to me! I had a lot of friends praying for me & finally found a doctor who diagnosed me correctly; I have so much to say but for now I want to feel healthy again and look as fit as I can (like my old self). Thanks