Low-dose oral methotrexate in the treatment of rheumatoid polyarthritis
Chamot, A.M.; Gerster, J.C.; Van Melle, G.
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift 118(36): 1267-1271
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0036-7672 PMID: 3175573 Document Number: 320329
28 patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis were treated with pulse weekly oral methotrexate over a mean follow-up of 24 months (6-36 months). Within one month the patients improved significantly by all clinical standards of efficacy and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Maximum improvement tended to occur after 6 months' therapy and was maintained for up to 36 months in most patients. 11 patients discontinued treatment because of adverse effects. It is concluded that this trial confirms the efficacy of methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis. Careful baseline and follow-up monitoring is recommended due to frequent adverse reactions.