Methotrexate (Monograph)
Brand names: Otrexup, Rheumatrex, Trexall
Drug class: Antineoplastic Agents
- Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs
- DMARDs
VA class: AN300
Molecular formula: C20H22N8O5
CAS number: 59-05-2
Warning
- Experience of Supervising Clinician
-
Administer only under supervision of qualified clinicians experienced in use of antimetabolite therapy.262 265
- Serious Toxic Reactions (Sometimes Fatal) Possible
-
Deaths reported with use in treatment of malignancy, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis.262 265
-
Use only for treatment of life-threatening neoplastic diseases or severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis in patients who have not responded adequately to other forms of therapy.262 265
-
Closely monitor patients for bone marrow, hepatic, pulmonary, or renal toxicities.262 265 (See Major Toxicities under Cautions.)
-
Inform patients of risks involved with therapy and importance of remaining under care of clinician throughout therapy.262 265
- High-Dose Regimens
-
Use of high-dose regimens recommended for treatment of osteosarcoma requires meticulous care.262 (See High-Dose Methotrexate Therapy with Leucovorin or Levoleucovorin Rescue under Dosage and Administration.)
-
Use of high-dose regimens for other neoplastic diseases is investigational; therapeutic advantage not established.262
- Formulations or Diluents Containing Preservatives
-
Do not use formulations or diluents containing preservatives for intrathecal administration or high-dose therapy.262
- Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality
-
Fetal death and/or congenital anomalies reported.262 265 Not recommended for use in women of childbearing potential unless potential benefit clearly outweighs risks; do not use in pregnant women with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis.262 265 (See Contraindications and also see Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality, under Cautions.)
- Reduced Elimination
-
Elimination reduced in patients with renal impairment, ascites, or pleural effusions.262 265 Carefully monitor for toxicity in such patients; dosage reduction or discontinuance may be required.262 265
- Concomitant Therapy with NSAIAs
-
Unexpectedly severe, sometimes fatal, myelosuppression, aplastic anemia, and GI toxicity reported with concomitant use of methotrexate (usually at high dosages) and some NSAIAs.262 265 (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)
- Hepatotoxicity
-
Possible hepatotoxicity, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, generally only after prolonged use.262 265 (See Hepatic Effects under Cautions.)
-
Acute liver enzyme elevations frequently observed; usually transient and asymptomatic and do not appear predictive of subsequent hepatic disease.262 265
-
Liver biopsy after sustained use often shows histologic changes.262 265 Fibrosis and cirrhosis may not be preceded by symptoms or abnormal liver function tests in patients with psoriasis; periodic liver biopsies usually recommended in such patients undergoing long-term therapy.262 265
-
Persistent abnormalities in liver function tests may precede appearance of fibrosis or cirrhosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.262 265
- Pulmonary Toxicity
-
Potentially dangerous pulmonary lesions, not always reversible, may occur acutely at any time during therapy and have been reported at dosages as low as 7.5 mg weekly.262 265 Pulmonary symptoms (especially dry, nonproductive cough) may require therapy interruption and careful evaluation.262 265
- GI Toxicity
-
Diarrhea and ulcerative stomatitis require interruption of therapy; otherwise, hemorrhagic enteritis and death from intestinal perforation may occur.262 265
- Malignant Lymphomas
-
Malignant lymphomas (e.g., non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) may occur in patients receiving low-dose oral therapy; such lymphomas may regress following methotrexate discontinuance and may not require cytotoxic therapy.a 262 265 If the lymphoma does not regress following discontinuance, institute appropriate therapy.262 265
- Tumor Lysis Syndrome
-
May induce tumor lysis syndrome in patients with rapidly growing tumors; appropriate pharmacologic and supportive treatment may prevent or alleviate syndrome.262 265
- Dermatologic Reactions
-
Severe, occasionally fatal skin reactions reported following single or multiple doses; reactions occurred within days of oral, IM, IV, or intrathecal administration.262 265 Recovery reported with discontinuance of therapy.262 265 (See Dermatologic and Sensitivity Reactions under Cautions.)
Introduction
Antineoplastic agent and immunosuppressant; folic acid antagonist.a 262 265
Uses for Methotrexate
Breast Cancer
Treatment (alone or, more commonly, in combination chemotherapy) of breast cancer.a 262 265
First-line adjuvant chemotherapy in combination with other drugs (i.e., cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil, with or without hormonal therapy).166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 178 179 182 185 186 187 267 An anthracycline-containing regimen is preferred in patients with node-positive disease.267
Some studies suggest a slight advantage for anthracycline-containing regimens in relapse-free and survival rates in both premenopausal and postmenopausal patients.274
Also used in patients with metastatic disease.267 274
Head and Neck Cancer
Palliative treatment (alone and in combination therapy) of recurrent or metastatic head and neck carcinoma.182 210 211 212 262 265 267
Frequently used in combination regimens with other antineoplastic agents (e.g., bleomycin, fluorouracil, vincristine).210
Combination therapy with cisplatin, methotrexate, bleomycin, and vincristine has been used for recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.212
Further study needed to establish comparative benefit of methotrexate-containing regimens.210 212
Leukemias
Component of various chemotherapy regimens in palliative treatment of acute leukemias.a
Intrathecally for prophylaxis and treatment of meningeal leukemia.a 262 267
First-line therapy in combination with mercaptopurine for maintenance of drug-induced remissions of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).262 265 267
Has been used in high doses as a component of some alternative combination chemotherapy regimens for remission induction in ALL, but not generally considered a drug of choice for remission induction.267
Rarely effective alone for treatment of acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML);a has been used as an additional component in some chemotherapy regimens for induction or post-induction therapy of AML.a 267
Lung Cancer
Has been used in second-line therapy of recurrent small cell lung cancer.235 262 265 276
Although labeled for use in squamous cell type of non-small cell lung cancer,127 262 265 other agents are preferred.182 267
Lymphomas
Component of combination chemotherapeutic regimens as first-line palliative therapy for high-grade Burkitt’s lymphoma or maintenance therapy for high-grade lymphoblastic non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.262 265 267
Component of alternative combination chemotherapy regimens for treatment of intermediate-grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (diffuse large cell, diffuse small cell, diffuse mixed, follicular large cell).267
Has been used intrathecally in combination with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone with or without rituximab for first-line therapy of intermediate-grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas.267
Although radiation or topical therapy is generally used for treatment of localized histiocytic lymphoma, lymphosarcoma, and mycosis fungoides, chemotherapy may be useful in generalized stages of these diseases.a
First-line267 systemic chemotherapy for advanced cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (e.g., mycosis fungoides, Sézary syndrome).262 265 277
First-line therapy of primary CNS lymphoma.267
Hodgkin’s disease responds poorly to methotrexate.a
Osteosarcoma
High-dose therapy, followed by leucovorin or levoleucovorin rescue, in combination chemotherapy regimens as adjunct to surgical resection or amputation of primary tumor in patients with nonmetastatic osteosarcoma262 263 264 267 270 (designated an orphan drug by FDA for this use).192
Also has been used as a component of adjunctive combination chemotherapy regimens in patients with metastatic osteosarcoma.270
Psoriasis
Symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy in carefully selected patients; not curative.a 262 265
Use only after diagnosis definitely established (e.g., biopsy, after dermatologic consultation).262 265
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Management of rheumatoid arthritis in adults whose symptoms progress despite an adequate regimen of NSAIAs.111 112 113 114 115 116 127 128 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148 149 152 153 154 262 265
Management of active polyarticular-course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy (i.e., full-dose NSAIAs).262 265 (See Pediatric Use under Cautions.)
One of several disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) that can be used when DMARD therapy is appropriate.220 224
Substantially greater long-term efficacy than other DMARDs; used as the initial or anchor DMARD in many patients with rheumatoid arthritis.220 222 224 225 226 Also has been used in combination with other DMARDs.220 222 225 228 229 230 231 232 233 234
Use only as part of a comprehensive treatment program, including nondrug therapies (e.g., rest, physical therapy).127
No substantial evidence that methotrexate permanently arrests or reverses the underlying disease process,127 128 138 140 144 147 153 although disease progression is slowed in some patients.138 140 143 144 160 220
Trophoblastic Neoplasms
Treatment (with or without leucovorin) of trophoblastic neoplasms (choriocarcinoma, chorioadenoma destruens, hydatidiform mole) in women (except those with impaired renal or hepatic function or who have failed to respond to previous methotrexate therapy, in which case dactinomycin is used).a 262 265 268
Most effective in patients who have had disease for only a short period prior to initiation of chemotherapy, who have low initial gonadotropin concentrations, and who do not have metastases.a
First-line therapy with or without leucovorin in patients with nonmetastatic or good-prognosis metastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasms.267 268
Component of combination chemotherapy regimen with dactinomycin and chlorambucil in patients with good-prognosis metastatic gestational trophoblastic neoplasms with refractory disease.268
In patients with poor-prognosis metastatic trophoblastic neoplasms, methotrexate in combination with etoposide, dactinomycin, vincristine, and cyclophosphamide (EMA-CO) is a standard treatment option.268 A dose-intensive regimen, EMA-CE, in which etoposide and cisplatin are substituted for vincristine and cyclophosphamide of the EMA-CO regimen, may offer additional benefits.268
Has been used prophylactically against malignant trophoblastic disease in patients with hydatidiform mole.a
Testicular choriocarcinomas are usually resistant to methotrexate alone; has been used as component of combination therapy in patients with metastatic tumors of the testes.a
Bladder Cancer
Used in combination regimens with vinblastine and cisplatin, with or without doxorubicin, as first- or second-line therapy267 for invasive and advanced bladder cancer† [off-label].182 205 206 207 208 209
Use of leucovorin rescue or deletion of methotrexate is advised if methotrexate-containing regimens are being considered for the treatment of advanced or metastatic bladder cancer in patients with renal dysfunction, edema, pleural fluid collections, or ascites.205
Crohn’s Disease
Management of chronically active Crohn’s disease† [off-label].241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 258 259 260
Ectopic Pregnancy
Used as an alternative to surgical management of ectopic pregnancy† [off-label] in selected patients with small, unruptured tubal pregnancies.271 272 273
Multiple Sclerosis
Low-dose oral therapy has been used in patients with chronic progressive multiple sclerosis† [off-label].201 202 203 204
Psoriatic Arthritis
Has been used for its immunosuppressive and/or anti-inflammatory effects in treatment of psoriatic arthritis† [off-label].109 110
Related/similar drugs
Blincyto, Kisqali, Rybrevant, Ibrance, Trodelvy, Tremfya, Opdivo
Methotrexate Dosage and Administration
General
-
Consult specialized references for procedures for proper handling and disposal of antineoplastics.262 265
-
Do not prescribe or dispense on as-needed (“prn”) basis.265
-
If toxicity previously necessitated discontinuance, reinstitute with caution; consider further need for drug and risk of toxicity recurrence.a 262 265
High-Dose Methotrexate Therapy with Leucovorin or Levoleucovorin Rescue
-
Use of high-dose regimens employed in adjunctive treatment of osteosarcoma requires meticulous understanding of risks associated with therapy and leucovorin or levoleucovorin rescue.a 262 264
-
Hydrate patients with 1 L/m2 of IV fluid over 6 hours prior to initiation of methotrexate infusion.262 Continue hydration at 125 mL/m2 per hour (3 L/m2 daily) during methotrexate infusion and for 2 days after completion of infusion.262
-
Alkalinize urine with sodium bicarbonate to maintain pH ≥7 during methotrexate infusion and rescue therapy with a folic acid antidote (e.g., leucovorin, levoleucovorin);262 264 administer sodium bicarbonate orally or via a separate IV solution.262
-
Scr must be normal and Clcr >60 mL/minute before therapy initiation.262 Repeat Scr and serum methotrexate 24 hours after starting methotrexate and at least once daily until the methotrexate concentration is <0.023 mcg/mL (0.05 µM).262
-
Measure Scr prior to each subsequent course of therapy; if Scr increases by ≥50% compared to prior value, measure and document that Clcr >60 mL/minute (even if Scr is still within normal range).262
-
May consider adding glucarpidase to leucovorin or levoleucovorin rescue therapy to treat toxic plasma methotrexate concentrations (>0.454 mcg/mL or >1 µM) in patients with delayed methotrexate clearance due to renal impairment.266 If glucarpidase is used, do not administer leucovorin or levoleucovorin within 2 hours before or after a dose of glucarpidase.266
-
Also consult manufacturers’ labelings and published protocols for specific recommendations based on laboratory and clinical findings.a 262
Administration
Administer orally or by IM, IV, or intrathecal injection; may also administer intra-arterially.262 265 Has been administered by sub-Q injection.265 278
Do not use formulations or diluents containing preservatives (e.g., benzyl alcohol) for intrathecal administration or high-dose therapy.262
Oral Administration
Administer orally as tablets.265
Oral administration is often preferred when low doses are used since absorption is rapid and effective serum concentrations are achieved.262 265
Manufacturer makes no specific recommendations regarding administration with meals; food delays absorption and reduces peak serum concentrations.214 262 265
Inadvertent daily instead of weekly administration in patients with rheumatic conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis) or certain inflammatory GI conditions (e.g., Crohn’s disease†) may result in fatal toxicity; careful review of intended use should be undertaken to ensure that inadvertent overdosage (e.g., administration of antineoplastic rather than anti-inflammatory dosages) does not occur.309 Carefully instruct patient regarding regimen and frequency of administration.265 309 (See Advice to Patients.)
Mnemonic dispensing packages (e.g., Rheumatrex Dose Pack) may be used for initial and maintenance therapy in patients receiving weekly doses of 5–20 mg but are not recommended for titration to weekly doses >20 mg.a 265
IV Administration
For solution and drug compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.
Administer by IV injection or infusion.262
Reconstitution
Reconstitute lyophilized powder for injection immediately before use with a sterile, preservative-free solution (e.g., 5% dextrose injection, 0.9% sodium chloride injection).262
Reconstitute 1 g vial with 19.4 mL of appropriate solution to yield a concentration of 50 mg/mL.262
Dilution
When high doses are administered by IV infusion, dilute total dose of reconstituted solution in 5% dextrose injection.262
Preservative-free solutions may be diluted immediately prior to use with an appropriate sterile, preservative-free solution (e.g., 5% dextrose injection, 0.9% sodium chloride injection).262
IM Administration
Administer by IM injection.262
Reconstitution
Reconstitute lyophilized powder for injection immediately before use with a sterile, preservative-free solution (e.g., 5% dextrose injection, 0.9% sodium chloride injection).262
Intrathecal Administration
Preservative-free solutions (1 mg/mL) are used for intrathecal injection.262 Do not administer solutions containing preservatives intrathecally.262
Must administer intrathecally for treatment of meningeal leukemia since passage of drug from blood to CSF is minimal.a 262
Prior to intrathecal administration, a volume of CSF approximately equivalent to volume of solution to be injected (e.g., 5–15 mL) is usually removed.a
If lumbar puncture is traumatic, do not administer intrathecally; allow 2 days to elapse before again attempting injection.a
Inject intrathecally only if there is easy flow of blood-free spinal fluid.a
Some clinicians recommend that entire volume of methotrexate injection be injected intrathecally in 15–30 seconds.a Aspiration should not be performed.a
Appears in systemic circulation following intrathecal administration; adjust, reduce, or discontinue any concomitant systemic administration as appropriate.a 262
Systemic administration of leucovorin calcium simultaneously with intrathecal methotrexate may prevent systemic toxicity without abolishing drug’s activity in CNS.a
Reconstitution
For intrathecal injection, reconstitute lyophilized powder to a concentration of 1 mg/mL with an appropriate sterile preservative-free diluent (e.g., 0.9% sodium chloride injection).262
Dilution
For intrathecal injection, dilute methotrexate preservative-free solution for injection to a concentration of 1 mg/mL with an appropriate sterile preservative-free diluent (e.g., 0.9% sodium chloride injection).262
Dosage
Available as methotrexate sodium; dosage is expressed in terms of methotrexate.262 265
Various dosage schedules have been used; individualize dosage, route of administration, and duration of therapy according to disease being treated, other therapy employed, and condition, response, and tolerance of the patient.a Consult published protocols for additional information on alternative regimens and dosages.
Pediatric Patients
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Oral
May administer an initial test dose prior to regular dosage schedule to detect possible sensitivity to adverse effects associated with the drug.265
Initially, 10 mg/m2 once weekly.262 265 May adjust dosage gradually to achieve optimal response.262 265
Dosages up to 30 mg/m2 weekly have been used in children, but published data are too limited to assess risk of serious toxicity at dosages >20 mg/m2 weekly.262 265
Children receiving 20–30 mg/m2 (0.65–1 mg/kg) weekly may have better absorption and fewer adverse GI effects if administered either IM or sub-Q.262 265
Optimum duration of therapy is unknown.262 265
IM or Sub-Q
Children receiving 20–30 mg/m2 (0.65–1 mg/kg) weekly may have better absorption and fewer adverse GI effects if administered either IM or sub-Q.262 265
Leukemias
Meningeal Leukemia
IntrathecalRegardless of method used to determine intrathecal dosage, carefully check dose prior to administration to minimize risk of inadvertent intrathecal overdosage.106
Clinical studies indicate that intrathecal dosage regimens based on age may be more effective and less neurotoxic than dosage regimens based on body surface area.107 108 127 262
Age |
Dose |
---|---|
<1 year |
6 mg |
1 year |
8 mg |
2 years |
10 mg |
≥3 years |
12 mg |
Intrathecal doses based on body surface area (i.e., 12 mg/m2, maximum 15 mg) reported to result in low CSF methotrexate concentrations and reduced efficacy in pediatric patients.262
Treatment: may administer at intervals of 2–5 days until CSF cell count returns to normal, at which point 1 additional dose is advisable.262 Administration at intervals of <1 week may result in increased subacute toxicity.262
Prophylaxis: dosage is the same as for treatment; administration intervals differ from regimen used in treatment.a 262 Consult specialized references and medical literature for specific recommendations.a 262
Adults
Breast Cancer
Various combination chemotherapy regimens have been used in the treatment of breast cancer; consult published protocols for dosages and method and sequence of administration.168 169 170 171 172 173 174 176 180 181 183 185 187
Dose intensity of adjuvant combination chemotherapy appears to be an important factor influencing clinical outcome in patients with early node-positive breast cancer, with response increasing with increasing dose intensity; avoid arbitrary reductions in dose intensity.166 170 187
IV
Dosage of 40 mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 8 of each cycle in combination with cyclophosphamide 100 mg/m2 on days 1–14 of each cycle and fluorouracil 600 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 of each cycle is commonly employed for treatment of early breast cancer.168 169 187
In patients >60 years of age, initial dosage is reduced to 30 mg/m2 and initial fluorouracil dosage is reduced to 400 mg/m2; 169 dosage also reduced if myelosuppression develops.168 169
Cycles are generally repeated monthly (i.e., allowing a 2-week rest period between cycles) for a total of 6–12 cycles (i.e., 6–12 months of therapy).168 169 187
In a sequential regimen in which several courses of doxorubicin are administered prior to a regimen of cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and fluorouracil in patients with early breast cancer and >3 positive axillary lymph nodes,171 4 doses of doxorubicin hydrochloride 75 mg/m2 were administered initially at 3-week intervals followed by 8 cycles of methotrexate 40 mg/m2, cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2, and fluorouracil 600 mg/m2 at 3-week intervals for a total of approximately 9 months of therapy.171 185 If myelosuppression developed with this sequential regimen, the subsequent cycle generally was delayed rather than dosage reduced.171 185
Leukemia
ALL (Induction Therapy)
OralNot generally a drug of choice, but 3.3 mg/m2 daily in combination with prednisone 60 mg/m2 daily for 4–6 weeks has been used.127 262 265
ALL (Maintenance Therapy)
Oral or IMAfter remission attained, 30 mg/m2 total weekly dose, administered in divided doses twice weekly.127 262 265
IVAlternatively, 2.5 mg/kg has been administered IV every 14 days.127 262 265
Meningeal Leukemia
IntrathecalTreatment: 12 mg administered at intervals of 2–5 days until CSF cell count returns to normal, at which point 1 additional dose is advisable.262 However, administration at intervals of <1 week may result in increased subacute toxicity.262
Prophylaxis: 12 mg; administration intervals differ from regimen used in treatment.a 262 Consult specialized references and medical literature for specific recommendations.a 262
Intrathecal doses of 12 mg/m2 (maximum 15 mg) reported to result in high CSF methotrexate concentrations and neurotoxicity in adults.262
Lymphomas
Oral
For Burkitt’s lymphoma (stage I or II), 10–25 mg daily for 4–8 days.262 265 In stage III Burkitt’s lymphoma, commonly given with other antineoplastic agents.262 265 In all stages, several courses are usually administered, interposed with 7- to 10-day rest periods.262 265
Stage III lymphosarcomas may respond to combined drug therapy with methotrexate given in doses of 0.625–2.5 mg/kg daily.262 265
Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma; Mycosis Fungoides
Oral, IM, or Sub-Q278Usually, 5–50 mg weekly in early stages.241 262 265 Dose reduction or discontinuance is determined by hematologic monitoring and patient response.241 265
Also has been administered twice weekly in doses ranging from 15–37.5 mg in patients who have responded poorly to weekly therapy.241 262 265
IVCombination chemotherapy regimens that include higher-dose methotrexate with leucovorin rescue have been used in advanced stages.262 265 241 Consult published protocols for dosages.
Osteosarcoma
High-Dose Methotrexate Therapy with Leucovorin or Levoleucovorin Rescue
IVInitially, 12 g/m2 infused over 4 hours on weeks 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15, 16, 29, 30, 44, and 45 after surgery on a schedule in combination with other chemotherapy agents (e.g., doxorubicin; cisplatin; combination of bleomycin, cyclophosphamide, and dactinomycin).262 If initial dosage is not sufficient to produce peak serum methotrexate concentrations of 454 mcg/mL (1000 µM [10-3 mol/L]) at the end of IV infusion, may increase dose to 15 g/m2 in subsequent treatments.262
Initiate rescue therapy with leucovorin or levoleucovorin to prevent acute toxicity.262 263 264 If leucovorin is used, administer at a dosage of 15 mg orally every 6 hours for 10 doses beginning 24 hours after the start of the methotrexate IV infusion;262 may give leucovorin IV or IM if patient experiences GI toxicity (e.g., nausea, vomiting) or cannot tolerate oral therapy.262 263 If levoleucovorin is used, administer at a dosage of 7.5 mg IV every 6 hours for 10 doses beginning 24 hours after the start of the methotrexate IV infusion.264 If clinically important methotrexate toxicity is observed, extend leucovorin or levoleucovorin therapy for an additional 24 hours (total of 14 doses instead of 10) in subsequent courses.262 264 Adjustment of rescue schedule may be required (see Table 2).263 264
Delay subsequent methotrexate administration until recovery if the following adverse effects occur: if WBC count is <1500/mm3; neutrophil count is <200/mm3; platelet count is <75,000/mm3; serum bilirubin concentration is >1.2 mg/dL; ALT concentration is >450 units; mucositis is present (until there is evidence of healing); or persistent pleural effusion is present (drain dry prior to infusion).262
Clinical Situation |
Laboratory Findings |
Leucovorin Dosage and Duration262 |
Levoleucovorin Dosage and Duration264 |
---|---|---|---|
Normal methotrexate elimination |
Serum methotrexate concentration approximately 4.54 mcg/mL (10 µM) at 24 hours after administration, 0.454 mcg/mL (1 µM) at 48 hours, and <0.091 mcg/mL (0.2 µM) at 72 hours |
15 mg orally, IM, or IV every 6 hours for 60 hours (10 doses starting at 24 hours after start of methotrexate infusion) |
7.5 mg IV every 6 hours for 60 hours (10 doses starting at 24 hours after start of methotrexate infusion) |
Delayed late methotrexate elimination |
Serum methotrexate concentration remaining >0.091 mcg/mL (0.2 µM) at 72 hours and >0.023 mcg/mL (0.05 µM) at 96 hours after administration |
Continue 15 mg orally, IM, or IV every 6 hours until methotrexate concentration is <0.023 mcg/mL (0.05 µM) |
Continue 7.5 mg IV every 6 hours until methotrexate concentration is <0.023 mcg/mL (0.05 µM) |
Delayed early methotrexate elimination and/or evidence of acute renal injury |
Serum methotrexate ≥22.7 mcg/mL (50 µM) at 24 hours or ≥2.27 mcg/mL (5 µM) at 48 hours after administration, or a ≥100% increase in Scr concentration at 24 hours after methotrexate administration (e.g., an increase from 0.5 mg/dL to a concentration of ≥1 mg/dL) |
150 mg IV every 3 hours until methotrexate concentration is <0.454 mcg/mL (1 µM), then 15 mg IV every 3 hours until methotrexate concentration is <0.023 mcg/mL (0.05 µM) |
75 mg IV every 3 hours until methotrexate concentration is <0.454 mcg/mL (1 µM), then 7.5 mg IV every 3 hours until methotrexate concentration is <0.023 mcg/mL (0.05 µM) |
Psoriasis
Oral
Administration of a single 5- to 10-mg dose 1 week prior to initiation of therapy has been recommended to detect idiosyncratic reactions.a
Divided oral dosage schedule: 2.5 mg at 12-hour intervals for 3 doses each week.265 May gradually adjust dosage by 2.5 mg/week to achieve optimal response; do not exceed 30 mg weekly ordinarily.a 265
Once optimal response obtained, reduce dosage schedule to lowest possible dose and longest possible rest period.265 Use may permit return to conventional topical therapy.265
Oral, IM, or IV
Weekly single-dosage schedule: 10–25 mg as a single dose once weekly until adequate response achieved.265 May gradually adjust dosage to achieve optimal response; do not exceed 30 mg weekly ordinarily.265 Once optimal response obtained, reduce dosage schedule to lowest possible dose and longest possible rest period.265
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Oral
May administer an initial test dose prior to regular dosage schedule to detect possible sensitivity to adverse effects.265
Initially, 7.5 mg once weekly or a course once weekly of 2.5 mg administered at 12-hour intervals for 3 doses.265 May gradually adjust dosage to achieve an optimal response.265
At dosages >20 mg weekly, possible increased incidence and severity of serious toxic reactions, especially myelosuppression.265
Optimal duration of therapy is not known; limited data indicate that initial improvement is maintained for at least 2 years with continued therapy.265
Trophoblastic Neoplasms
Oral or IM
Usually, 15–30 mg daily for 5 days.262 265 A repeat course may be given after a period of ≥1 week, provided all signs of residual toxicity have disappeared; 3–5 courses are usually employed.a 262 265 Clinical assessment before each course is essential.262 265
Therapy is usually evaluated by 24-hour quantitative analysis of urinary chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which usually normalizes after third or fourth course; complete resolution of measurable lesions usually occurs 4–6 weeks later.262
1 or 2 courses of therapy are usually given after normalization of urinary hCG concentrations is achieved.262
Crohn’s Disease†
Chronically Active Refractory Disease
IM25 mg once weekly has been administered for 16 weeks.241 243 244 250 251
Oral12.5–22.5 mg once weekly has been administered for up to 1 year.252
Maintenance Therapy
IM15 mg once weekly has been used.252
Ectopic Pregnancy†
IM
50 mg/m2 as a single dose.271 May require second dose or surgical intervention if hCG concentration fails to decrease by at least 15% from day 4 to day 7 after methotrexate administration.271
Alternatively, 1 mg/kg (on days 0, 2, 4, and 6) alternating with 0.1 mg/kg of leucovorin IM (on days 1, 3, 5, and 7) has been used.271 273
Prescribing Limits
Pediatric Patients
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Oral, IM, or Sub-Q
Although there is experience with dosages up to 30 mg/m2 weekly in children, published data are too limited to assess how dosages >20 mg/m2 weekly might affect risk of serious toxicity.262 265
Children receiving 20–30 mg/m2 (0.65–1 mg/kg) weekly may have better absorption and fewer GI effects if administered either IM or sub-Q.262 265
Adults
Psoriasis
Oral, IM, or IV
Do not ordinarily exceed 30 mg weekly.262 265
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Oral, IM, or IV
Do not ordinarily exceed 20 mg weekly.262 265
Limited experience suggests substantial increase in incidence and severity of serious toxic reactions, especially bone marrow suppression, at dosages >20 mg weekly.262 265
Special Populations
Renal Impairment
Dose reduction and especially careful monitoring for toxicity required.262 265
Geriatric Patients
Select dosage with caution since hepatic and renal function and folate stores may be decreased; closely monitor for early signs of toxicity.262 265
Patients with Ascites or Pleural Effusions
Dose reduction and especially careful monitoring for toxicity required.262 265
Cautions for Methotrexate
Contraindications
-
Pregnant women with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis; use in treatment of neoplastic diseases only when potential benefit outweighs risk to fetus.262 265 (See Boxed Warning.)
-
Excessive alcohol consumption, alcoholic liver disease, or other chronic liver disease in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis.127 262 265
-
Overt or laboratory evidence of immunodeficiency syndromes in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis.127 262 265
-
Preexisting blood dyscrasias (e.g., bone marrow hypoplasia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, clinically important anemia) in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis.127 262 265
Warnings/Precautions
Warnings
Also see Boxed Warnings.
Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality
Fetal death and/or congenital anomalies reported.262 265 Exclude pregnancy before initiating treatment.262 265 Avoid pregnancy if either partner is receiving methotrexate; avoid pregnancy during therapy and for ≥3 months after therapy in male patients and for at least one ovulatory cycle after therapy in female patients.262 265 If used during pregnancy or patient becomes pregnant, apprise of potential fetal hazard.262 265
Sensitivity Reactions
Dermatologic and Sensitivity Reactions
Severe, occasionally fatal cutaneous or sensitivity reactions (e.g., toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis, skin necrosis, erythema multiforme) reported in pediatric and adult patients within days of receiving drug at various dosages, by various routes, and for various conditions.193 262 265
Erythematous rashes, pruritus, dermatitis, urticaria, folliculitis, photosensitivity, depigmentation, hyperpigmentation, petechiae, ecchymoses, telangiectasia, acne, furunculosis, and skin ulceration also reported.a 262 265
Lesions of psoriasis may be aggravated by concomitant exposure to ultraviolet radiation; possible “recall” radiation dermatitis and sunburn with methotrexate use.262 265
Major Toxicities
Hematologic Effects
Possible suppressed hematopoiesis, anemia, aplastic anemia, pancytopenia, leukopenia, neutropenia, and/or thrombocytopenia.262 265 Use with caution in patients with malignancy and preexisting hematopoietic impairment.262 265
Perform CBCs, including differential and platelet counts, at least weekly in patients with neoplastic disease and at least monthly in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis.a 262 265
In patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis, discontinue if clinically important decrease in blood counts occurs and institute appropriate alternative therapy; in patients with neoplastic disease, continue only if potential benefit warrants risk of severe myelosuppression.a 262 265
If profound granulocytopenia and fever occur, observe patient closely and initiate broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy if there are signs of infection.a 262 265
Blood or platelet transfusions may be necessary in patients with severe myelosuppression.a
GI Effects
Risk of vomiting, diarrhea, or stomatitis resulting in dehydration; discontinue drug until recovery occurs.262 265 (See GI Toxicity in Boxed Warning.)
Use with extreme caution in presence of peptic ulcer disease or ulcerative colitis.262 265
Hepatic Effects
Possible hepatotoxicity; may be acute (increased serum aminotransferase concentrations) or chronic (fibrosis and cirrhosis).127 128 131 155 164 262 265
Chronic hepatotoxicity, potentially fatal, generally occurs after prolonged use (≥2 years) and after a total dose of ≥1.5 g.127 128 131 164 262 265
Risk of hepatotoxicity in patients with psoriasis appears to be related to cumulative dose and may be enhanced by alcoholism, obesity, diabetes, and advanced age.116 127 131 141 142 150 158 160 262 265 These risk factors also may apply to patients with rheumatoid arthritis;127 150 age at first use and duration of therapy also reported as risk factors in rheumatoid arthritis patients.262 265
Use with particular caution in patients with preexisting liver damage or hepatic impairment.262 265
Psoriasis: Perform liver function tests, including serum albumin, periodically prior to dosing, although results may be normal despite developing fibrosis or cirrhosis.116 127 131 138 141 142 147 148 262 265 Liver biopsy recommended before therapy or shortly after therapy initiation (2–4 months), at cumulative dose of 1.5 g, and after each additional 1–1.5 g.127 163 262 265 Usually discontinue drug if moderate fibrosis or any cirrhosis; repeat biopsy in 6 months if mild fibrosis.262 265 Continue use with caution if milder changes (e.g., fatty changes, low-grade portal inflammation).262 265
Rheumatoid arthritis: Prolonged, substantial abnormalities in liver function test results may precede appearance of hepatic fibrosis or cirrhosis; 127 262 265 perform liver function tests at baseline and at 4- to 8-week intervals.262 265 Pretreatment liver biopsy recommended if history of excessive alcohol consumption, persistently abnormal baseline liver function tests, or chronic hepatitis B or C infection.127 Perform liver biopsy during therapy if persistent liver function test abnormalities or serum albumin concentrations fall below normal (in setting of well-controlled rheumatoid arthritis).262 265 If liver biopsy shows mild changes (Roenigk grade I, II, or IIIa), continue therapy and monitoring; discontinue if persistently abnormal liver function tests, if biopsy shows moderate to severe changes (Roenigk grade IIIb or IV), or if patient refuses biopsy.262 265
Respiratory Effects
Potentially fatal119 127 154 pulmonary toxicity; can progress rapidly117 118 119 127 128 129 130 and may not be fully reversible.119 127 128 Adverse pulmonary effects (i.e., acute or chronic interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis) may occur at any dosage at any time during therapy.117 118 119 242 262 265
If manifestations (e.g., fever, cough [especially dry and nonproductive], dyspnea, chest pain, hypoxemia [possibly severe], radiographic evidence of pulmonary infiltrates [usually diffuse and/or alveolar])117 118 119 127 128 129 130 159 160 262 265 occur, discontinue and carefully evaluate, including exclusion of possible infectious causes.119 127 128 129 130
Management is mainly supportive and may include mechanical ventilation.119 128 129 130
Potentially fatal opportunistic infections (e.g., P. jiroveci pneumonia) reported; consider possibility of P. jiroveci pneumonia in patients who develop pulmonary symptoms.262 265
Renal Effects
May cause renal damage that may lead to acute renal failure.262 265
Nephrotoxicity is due principally to precipitation of methotrexate and 7-hydroxymethotrexate in the renal tubules.262 265
Careful attention to renal function, including adequate hydration, urine alkalinization, and measurement of methotrexate and Scr concentrations is essential.265
Perform renal function tests prior to and periodically during therapy (at 1- to 2-month intervals in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis; more frequently in patients with neoplastic disease).a 262 265
If renal impairment develops during therapy, reduce dosage or discontinue drug until renal function is improved or restored.a 262 265
Immunosuppressive Effects
Consider immunosuppressive effects when evaluating use in patients in whom immune response may be important or essential.a (See Vaccines under Interactions.)
Usually contraindicated in patients with overt or laboratory evidence of immunodeficiency syndromes.a 262 265 (See Contraindications under Cautions.)
Use with extreme caution in presence of active infection.a 262 265
Hypogammaglobulinemia reported rarely.262 265
Neurologic Effects
Leukoencephalopathy reported following IV administration in patients who had received craniospinal irradiation; chronic leukoencephalopathy also reported in patients receiving repeated high-dose therapy with leucovorin rescue even without cranial irradiation.262
Severe neurotoxic effects, manifested mainly by focal or generalized seizures, reported with increased frequency in pediatric patients with ALL who received intermediate-dose IV therapy (1 g/m2);193 262 leukoencephalopathy and/or microangiopathic calcifications usually were observed in diagnostic imaging procedures of symptomatic patients.193
A transient acute neurologic syndrome observed in patients receiving high-dosage regimens; exact cause unknown.262 Manifestations of this stroke-like encephalopathy may include confusion, hemiparesis, transient blindness, seizures, and coma.262
Intrathecal Administration
Possible acute chemical arachnoiditis manifested by headache, back pain, nuchal rigidity, and/or fever; subacute myelopathy manifested by paraparesis/paraplegia involving one or more spinal nerve roots; chronic leukoencephalopathy (may be progressive and fatal) manifested by confusion, irritability, somnolence, ataxia, dementia, and occasionally seizures and coma; and increased CSF pressure.127
Systemic toxicity also may occur following intrathecal administration.a 262
Inadvertent intrathecal overdosage has occurred;101 102 103 symptoms generally include CNS effects (i.e., headache, nausea, vomiting, seizure, acute toxic encephalopathy),262 although in some cases, no symptoms were reported.262 Death has occurred following intrathecal overdose; in these cases, cerebellar herniation associated with increased intracranial pressure and acute toxic encephalopathy also reported.262
Accidental intrathecal overdosage may require intensive systemic support, high-dose systemic leucovorin (intrathecal leucovorin contraindicated), alkaline diuresis, and rapid CSF drainage and ventriculolumbar perfusion.262
Focal leukemic involvement of the CNS may not respond to intrathecal methotrexate and may best be treated with radiation therapy.a
General Precautions
Adequate Patient Evaluation and Monitoring
Therapeutic response is not likely without some evidence of toxicity.a Severity of toxic reactions may be increased when used in combination with other antineoplastic agents and/or radiation therapy.a
Closely monitor patients with complete hematologic studies, urinalysis, renal function tests, liver function tests, and chest radiographs.a 262 265 (See Major Toxicities under Cautions.)
If serious toxicity occurs, reduce dosage or discontinue and institute appropriate corrective measures (e.g., use of leucovorin calcium, acute intermittent hemodialysis with a high-flux dialyzer).265
Third-Space Compartments
Exits slowly from third-space compartments (e.g., pleural effusions, ascites), resulting in prolonged elimination and unexpected toxicity in patients with substantial third-space accumulations.a 265 Evacuation of fluid recommended before treatment; monitor plasma methotrexate concentrations.265
Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Category X.262 (See Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality in Boxed Warning and under Cautions.)
Lactation
Distributed into milk.262 Contraindicated in nursing women because of risk to nursing infant.127 262 265
Pediatric Use
Safety and efficacy established only for cancer chemotherapy or polyarticular-course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.262 265
In clinical studies, safety in pediatric patients 2–16 years of age with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis was similar to that observed in adults with rheumatoid arthritis.262 265
Severe neurotoxic effects (e.g., focal or generalized seizures) reported in pediatric patients with ALL who received intermediate-dose IV therapy (1 g/m2).193 262 (See Neurologic Effects under Cautions.)
Preparations containing benzyl alcohol preservative not recommended in neonates because of toxicity.262
Geriatric Use
Insufficient experience in patients ≥65 years of age to determine whether geriatric patients respond differently than younger adults; select dosage with caution due to greater frequency of decreased hepatic and renal function and folate stores and of concomitant disease and drug therapy (i.e., that interfere with renal function or methotrexate or folate metabolism) observed in the elderly.262 265
Occurrence of bone marrow suppression, thrombocytopenia, and pneumonitis may increase with age.262 265
Closely monitor geriatric patients for early signs of hepatic, bone marrow, and renal toxicity; certain toxicities may be reduced by folate supplementation.262 265 Scr may overestimate renal function in geriatric patients; consider more accurate methods (i.e., Clcr). Serum methotrexate concentrations may be helpful.262 265
Hepatic Impairment
Contraindicated in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis who have alcoholic liver disease or other chronic liver disease.262 265 Use with extreme caution, if at all, in patients with malignant disease who have preexisting liver damage or impaired hepatic function.a
Renal Impairment
Usually contraindicated.a
Debilitated Patients
Use with extreme caution.265
Common Adverse Effects
Ulcerative stomatitis, leukopenia, nausea, abdominal distress, malaise, undue fatigue, chills, fever, dizziness, decreased resistance to infection.262 265
Drug Interactions
Protein-bound Drugs
Possible increased methotrexate toxicity because of displacement from protein binding sites.a (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)
Weak Organic Acids
Potential to delay renal excretion and increase accumulation of methotrexate.a (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)
Hepatotoxic Agents
Increase in adverse hepatic effects expected.262 265
Nephrotoxic Drugs
Possible altered renal elimination of methotrexate.279 Exercise caution if high-dose methotrexate administered in conjunction with nephrotoxic drugs in patients with osteosarcoma.262
Specific Drugs
Drug |
Interaction |
Comments |
---|---|---|
Adalimumab |
Decreased adalimumab clearance280 |
Dosage adjustment not needed280 |
Aminobenzoic acid |
Possible increased methotrexate toxicity because of displacement from protein binding sitesa |
Use concomitantly with cautiona |
Amiodarone |
Possible inhibition of methotrexate metabolism with prolonged administration (2 weeks) of oral amiodarone281 282 |
|
Anakinra |
Administered concurrently in clinical studies,283 284 285 but specific drug interactions not evaluated in humans283 286 No effect on clearance or toxicologic profile of either drug when administered concurrently in rats283 |
|
Asparaginase |
Decreased effectiveness of methotrexate during period of asparagine suppression287 |
Administration of methotrexate with or shortly after asparaginase not recommended287 |
Azathioprine |
||
Chloramphenicol |
Possible increased methotrexate toxicity because of displacement from protein binding sitesa 262 265 Possible decreased intestinal absorption of methotrexate or interference with enterohepatic circulation262 265 |
Use concomitantly with cautiona |
Cisplatin |
Possible altered renal elimination of methotrexate279 |
Possible synergistic antineoplastic effects288 288 Exercise caution if high-dose methotrexate administered in conjunction with cisplatin in patients with osteosarcoma262 |
Co-trimoxazole |
Sulfonamides can displace methotrexate from plasma protein-binding sites resulting in increased free methotrexate concentrationsa Co-trimoxazole rarely increases myelosuppression in patients receiving methotrexate, probably by additive antifolate effect262 |
Use concomitantly with cautiona |
Cyclosporine |
Possible increased plasma concentrations of methotrexate and its active metabolite; no apparent effect on blood concentrations of cyclosporine 289 |
Generally administer cyclosporine formulations for emulsion (Neoral) at ≤3 mg/kg daily in patients receiving methotrexate ≤15 mg weekly289 |
DMARDs (e.g., gold, hydroxychloroquine, penicillamine, sulfasalazine) |
Concomitant administration not studied; possible increased incidence of adverse effects262 265 |
|
Folic acid (e.g., multivitamins) |
Potential for decreased methotrexate effectiveness;a 262 however, folate deficiency may increase methotrexate toxicity262 |
|
Infliximab |
Possible decreased rate of clearance of infliximab290 291 Possible decrease in rate of development of antibodies to infliximab292 |
Interaction not studied specifically;290 293 294 295 296 297 298 used concomitantly in clinical studies 290 291 293 294 295 296 297 298 |
Mercaptopurine |
May require dosage adjustment262 |
|
NSAIAs (e.g., indomethacin, ketoprofen, phenylbutazone [not commercially available in US], salicylates) |
Increased serum methotrexate concentrations and deaths from severe hematologic and GI toxicity reported when NSAIAs used concomitantly with high-dose methotrexate120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 262 265 NSAIAs and salicylates may inhibit renal elimination of methotrexate;120 121 122 123 124 125 126 262 265 possibly increased and prolonged serum methotrexate concentrations127 128 138 139 a Possible increased methotrexate toxicity because of displacement from protein binding sites by phenylbutazone or salicylatesa 265 |
Avoid NSAIAs in patients receiving relatively high dosages of methotrexate (e.g., those used in osteosarcoma)127 128 155 Use caution if low-dose methotrexate and NSAIAs or salicylates used concomitantly127 128 262 265 |
Penicillins (e.g., amoxicillin, carbenicillin) |
Possible decreased methotrexate renal clearance127 188 190 Increased serum methotrexate concentrations and GI or hematologic toxicity reported in patients receiving low- or high-dose methotrexate therapy concomitantly with penicillins127 188 189 190 |
Carefully monitor patients during concomitant use127 188 189 190 |
Phenytoin |
Possible increased methotrexate toxicity because of displacement from protein binding sitesa 265 |
Use concomitantly with cautiona |
Probenecid |
||
Proton-pump inhibitors (e.g., dexlansoprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole) |
Possible decreased clearance and increased serum concentrations of methotrexate and/or its metabolite hydroxymethotrexate; possible methotrexate toxicities (e.g., renal or hematologic toxicity, severe mucositis, myalgia)301 302 303 304 305 306 307 308 Reported mainly with high-dose methotrexate (300 mg/m2 to 12 g/m2)302 303 304 305 306 307 308 but also reported with low dosages (e.g., 15 mg per week)302 |
Manufacturers of proton-pump inhibitors recommend considering temporary discontinuance of proton-pump inhibitor therapy in some patients receiving high-dose methotrexate303 304 305 306 307 308 Some clinicians recommend withholding proton-pump inhibitor therapy for several days before, during, and for several days after administration of either high-dose or low-dose methotrexate or, alternatively, substituting an H2-receptor antagonist (e.g., ranitidine) for the proton-pump inhibitor301 302 |
Pyrimethamine |
Possible increased risk of myelosuppression275 |
Do not administer concomitantlya |
Retinoids |
||
Sulfasalazine |
||
Sulfonamides |
Possible increased methotrexate toxicity because of displacement from protein binding sitesa 265 |
Use concomitantly with cautiona |
Tetracyclines |
Possible increased methotrexate toxicity because of displacement from protein binding sitesa 262 265 Possible decreased intestinal absorption of methotrexate or interference with enterohepatic circulation262 265 |
Use concomitantly with cautiona |
Theophylline |
Possible decreased theophylline clearance265 |
Monitor serum theophylline concentrations265 |
Vaccines |
Disseminated vaccinia infection reported following smallpox vaccination in patients receiving methotrexate127 128 151 Although antibody response to killed virus vaccines is not normal, partial or complete protection may still be attained; however, may be ineffectivea 262 265 |
Generally, do not use live virus vaccines in patients receiving methotrexatea Use killed virus vaccines if necessarya |
Methotrexate Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Bioavailability
Oral absorption appears to be highly variable and dose dependent;127 214 215 oral bioavailability may be <50%.215 Bioavailability decreases with increasing oral doses; absorption may be substantially reduced at doses >80 mg/m2.127 214 215 Following oral administration, peak serum concentrations are attained in 1–2 hours.127
Appears to be completely absorbed following IM administration at doses ≤100 mg;127 215 peak serum concentrations are attained within 30–60 minutes.127
Onset
In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, effects on articular swelling and tenderness may be observed after 3–6 weeks of treatment; improvement may continue for another 12 weeks or more.262 265
Duration
In patients with arthritis, limited data indicate that initial improvement is maintained for at least 2 years with continued therapy.262 265 Arthritis usually worsens within 3–6 weeks after methotrexate discontinuance.262 265
Food
Food delays absorption and decreases peak serum concentrations following oral administration.127 214
Special Populations
Absorbed through the ileum; placement of a Foley catheter or frequent emptying of the reservoir is advised in patients with long ileal loops or internal reservoirs during administration of methotrexate-containing regimens for the treatment of advanced or metastatic bladder cancer.205 206
Distribution
Extent
Widely distributed into body tissues, with highest concentrations in the kidneys, gallbladder, spleen, liver, and skin.a Distributes into third-space fluids.215 216
High-dose systemic therapy can result in peak CSF concentrations above the therapeutic threshold.216 219 Intrathecal administration may result in potentially cytotoxic serum concentrations that can persist for 24–48 hours.215
Crosses the placentaa and is distributed into milk.127 161 162
Plasma Protein Binding
About 50% (mainly albumin).127 215
Special Populations
Presence of pleural effusions or ascites can substantially alter drug disposition.215 216
Elimination
Metabolism
Undergoes hepatic and intracellular metabolism to polyglutamate metabolites;127 partially metabolized by intestinal flora after oral administration.127
Polyglutamate metabolites may be converted back to methotrexate by hydrolysis,127 and metabolites may remain in tissues for extended periods of time.127
Elimination Route
Excreted principally by the kidneys and to a lesser extent via feces.a
Half-life
At low-doses (<30 mg/m2), terminal half-life is about 3–10 hours.127 262 265 At high doses, elimination half-life is about 8–15 hours.127 262 265
Special Populations
Excretion is impaired and accumulation occurs more rapidly in patients with impaired renal function, pleural effusion, or other substantial third-space accumulations (e.g., ascites).a 262 265
Stability
Storage
Oral
Tablets
Well-closed containers at 20–25°C.265 269 Protect from light.265
Parenteral
Injection
20–25°C.262 Protect from light.262
Use preservative-free solution immediately after further dilution.262
Powder for Injection
20–25°C.262 Protect from light.262
Use immediately after reconstitution.262
Compatibility
Parenteral
Solution Compatibility262 HID
Compatible |
---|
Amino acids 4.25%, dextrose 25% |
Dextrose 5% in water |
Sodium bicarbonate 0.05 M |
Sodium chloride 0.9% |
Drug Compatibility
Compatible |
---|
Cyclophosphamide |
Cyclophosphamide with fluorouracil |
Cytarabine |
Fluorouracil |
Hydroxyzine HCl |
Mercaptopurine sodium |
Ondansetron HCl |
Sodium bicarbonate |
Vincristine sulfate |
Incompatible |
Bleomycin sulfate |
Compatible |
---|
Allopurinol sodium |
Amifostine |
Amphotericin B cholesteryl sulfate complex |
Asparaginase |
Aztreonam |
Bleomycin sulfate |
Cefepime HCl |
Ceftriaxone sodium |
Cimetidine HCl |
Cisplatin |
Cyclophosphamide |
Cytarabine |
Daunorubicin HCl |
Diphenhydramine HCl |
Doripenem |
Doxorubicin HCl |
Doxorubicin HCl liposome injection |
Etoposide |
Etoposide phosphate |
Famotidine |
Filgrastim |
Fludarabine phosphate |
Fluorouracil |
Furosemide |
Gallium nitrate |
Ganciclovir sodium |
Granisetron HCl |
Heparin |
Heparin sodium |
Hydromorphone HCl |
Imipenem–cilastatin sodium |
Leucovorin calcium |
Linezolid |
Lorazepam |
Melphalan HCl |
Mesna |
Methylprednisolone sodium succinate |
Metoclopramide HCl |
Mitomycin |
Morphine sulfate |
Ondansetron HCl |
Oxacillin sodium |
Oxaliplatin |
Paclitaxel |
Piperacillin sodium–tazobactam sodium |
Prochlorperazine edisylate |
Ranitidine HCl |
Sargramostim |
Teniposide |
Thiotepa |
Vinblastine sulfate |
Vincristine sulfate |
Vinorelbine tartrate |
Incompatible |
Chlorpromazine HCl |
Gemcitabine HCl |
Idarubicin HCl |
Ifosfamide |
Midazolam HCl |
Nalbuphine HCl |
Promethazine HCl |
Propofol |
Variable |
Dexamethasone sodium phosphate |
Droperidol |
Vancomycin HCl |
Actions
-
Methotrexate and its polyglutamate metabolites reversibly inhibit dihydrofolate reductase (enzyme that reduces folic acid to tetrahydrofolic acid); inhibition of tetrahydrofolate formation limits availability of one-carbon fragments necessary for synthesis of purines and conversion of deoxyuridylate to thymidylate in DNA synthesis and cell reproduction.a 262 265
-
Also causes an increase in intracellular deoxyadenosine triphosphate, which is thought to inhibit ribonucleotide reduction, and polynucleotide ligase, an enzyme concerned in DNA synthesis and repair.a
-
Tissues with high rates of cellular proliferation (e.g., neoplasms, psoriatic epidermis, bone marrow, lining of GI tract, hair matrix, fetal cells, urinary bladder) are most sensitive.a
-
Also has immunosuppressive activity, possibly because of lymphocyte multiplication inhibition.a
-
Mechanism(s) of action in rheumatoid arthritis not known; suggested mechanisms have included immunosuppressive and/or anti-inflammatory effects.113 116 127 128 138 141 142 144 145 262 265
Advice to Patients
-
Necessity of informing patients of potential benefits and risks of therapy and importance of remaining under care of clinician throughout therapy.262 265
-
Risk of hematologic, hepatic, pulmonary, and renal toxicities; importance of close follow-up, including periodic laboratory tests to monitor toxicity.262 265
-
Importance of recognizing early manifestations of toxicity and informing clinician promptly if such manifestations occur.262 265
-
Importance of emphasizing to patients that the recommended dose is taken weekly in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, and that mistaken daily use of recommended dose has led to fatal toxicity.265 309 Encourage patients to read patient instruction sheet provided with mnemonic dispensing packages, paying particular attention to frequency of administration.265 309
-
Importance of informing clinicians of existing or contemplated concomitant therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs, as well as any concomitant illnesses.262
-
Importance of women informing clinicians if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed.262 Importance of informing both male and female patients of risks to fetus if pregnancy occurs.262 265 Advise patients to avoid pregnancy while either partner is receiving methotrexate, and for a minimum of 3 months after therapy in men and at least 1 ovulatory cycle after therapy in women.262 265
-
Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information.262 (See Cautions.)
Preparations
Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.
Please refer to the ASHP Drug Shortages Resource Center for information on shortages of one or more of these preparations.
* available from one or more manufacturer, distributor, and/or repackager by generic (nonproprietary) name
Routes |
Dosage Forms |
Strengths |
Brand Names |
Manufacturer |
---|---|---|---|---|
Oral |
Tablets |
2.5 mg (of methotrexate)* |
Methotrexate Sodium Tablets (scored) |
|
Rheumatrex Dose Pack (scored) |
Dava |
|||
Tablets, film-coated |
5 mg (of methotrexate) |
Trexall (scored) |
Duramed |
|
7.5 mg (of methotrexate) |
Trexall (scored) |
Duramed |
||
10 mg (of methotrexate) |
Trexall (scored) |
Duramed |
||
15 mg (of methotrexate) |
Trexall (scored) |
Duramed |
||
Parenteral |
For injection |
1 g (of methotrexate)* |
Methotrexate Sodium for Injection |
|
Injection |
10 mg (of methotrexate) per mL* |
Methotrexate Sodium Injection Isotonic |
||
25 mg (of methotrexate) per mL* |
Methotrexate Sodium Injection Isotonic |
AHFS DI Essentials™. © Copyright 2024, Selected Revisions October 8, 2018. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 4500 East-West Highway, Suite 900, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.
† Off-label: Use is not currently included in the labeling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.
References
Only references cited for selected revisions after 1984 are available electronically.
100. Roenigk HH Jr, Auerbach R, Maibach HI et al. Methotrexate guidelines—revised. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1982; 6:145-55. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7037877?dopt=AbstractPlus
101. Lampkin BC, Higgins GR, Hammond D. Absence of neurotoxicity following massive intrathecal administration of methotrexate. Cancer. 1967; 20:1780-1. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/5299295?dopt=AbstractPlus
102. Ettinger LJ, Freeman AI, Creaven PJ. Intrathecal methotrexate overdose without neurotoxicity. Cancer. 1978; 41:1270-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/346194?dopt=AbstractPlus
103. Ettinger LJ. Pharmacokinetics and biochemical effects of a fatal intrathecal methotrexate overdose. Cancer. 1982; 50:444-50. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6178493?dopt=AbstractPlus
104. Spiegel RJ, Cooper PR, Blum RH et al. Treatment of massive intrathecal methotrexate overdose by ventriculolumbar perfusion. N Engl J Med. 1984; 311:386-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6610829?dopt=AbstractPlus
105. Addiego JE Jr, Ridgway D, Bleyer WA. The acute management of intrathecal methotrexate overdose: pharmacologic rationale and guidelines. J Pediatr. 1981; 98:825-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6971923?dopt=AbstractPlus
106. Poplack DG. Massive intrathecal overdose: “check the label twice!” N Engl J Med. 1984; 311:400-2. Editorial.
107. Bleyer WA. Clinical pharmacology of intrathecal methotrexate. II. An improved dosage regimen derived from age-related pharmacokinetics. Cancer Treat Rep. 1977; 61:1419-25. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/579164?dopt=AbstractPlus
108. Bleyer WA, Coccia PF, Sather HN et al. Reduction in central nervous system leukemia with a pharmacokinetically derived intrathecal methotrexate dosage regimen. J Clin Oncol. 1983; 1:317-25. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6366138?dopt=AbstractPlus
109. Black RL, O’Brien WM, Van Scott EJ et al. Methotrexate therapy in psoriatic arthritis. JAMA. 1964; 189:743-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14174051?dopt=AbstractPlus
110. Willkens RF, Williams HJ, Ward JR et al. Randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial of low-dose pulse methotrexate in psoriatic arthritis. Arthritis Rheum. 1984; 27:376-81. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6712754?dopt=AbstractPlus
111. Weinblatt ME, Coblyn JS, Fox DA et al. Efficacy of low-dose methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis. N Engl J Med. 1985; 312:818-22. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3883172?dopt=AbstractPlus
112. Williams HJ, Willkens RF, Samuelson CO Jr et al. Comparison of low-dose oral pulse methotrexate and placebo in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheum. 1985; 28:721-30. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3893441?dopt=AbstractPlus
113. Andersen PA, West SG, O’Dell JR et al. Weekly pulse methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis: clinical and immunologic effects in a randomized, double-blind study. Ann Intern Med. 1985; 103:489-96. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4037555?dopt=AbstractPlus
114. Hoffmeister RT. Methotrexate therapy in rheumatoid arthritis: 15 years experience. Am J Med. 1983; 75(Suppl 6A):69-73. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6660241?dopt=AbstractPlus
115. Weinstein A, Marlowe S, Korn J et al. Low-dose methotrexate treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Am J Med. 1985; 79:331-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4036984?dopt=AbstractPlus
116. Klippel JH, Decker JL. Methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis. N Engl J Med. 1985; 312:853-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3974665?dopt=AbstractPlus
117. Sostman HD, Matthay RA, Putman CE et al. Methotrexate-induced pneumonitis. Medicine (Baltimore). 1976; 55:371-88. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/957997?dopt=AbstractPlus
118. Cannon GW, Ward JR, Clegg DO et al. Acute lung disease associated with low-dose methotrexate therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheum. 1983; 26:1269-74. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6626285?dopt=AbstractPlus
119. St Clair EW, Rice JR, Snyderman R. Pneumonitis complicating low-dose methotrexate therapy in rheumatoid arthritis. Arch Intern Med. 1985; 145:2035-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4062454?dopt=AbstractPlus
120. Thyss A, Milano G, Kubar J et al. Clinical and pharmacokinetic evidence of a life-threatening interaction between methotrexate and ketoprofen. Lancet. 1986; 1:256-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2868265?dopt=AbstractPlus
121. Ellison NM, Servi RJ. Acute renal failure and death following sequential intermediate-dose methotrexate and 5-FU: a possible adverse effect due to concomitant indomethacin administration. Cancer Treat Rep. 1985; 69:342-3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3978662?dopt=AbstractPlus
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