Methotrexate is typically prescribed how often?

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Multiple Choice

Methotrexate is typically prescribed how often?

Explanation:
In chronic autoimmune therapy, methotrexate is given once weekly rather than daily. This scheduling balances its immunosuppressive effect with safety: at low doses used for diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, MTX reduces immune cell proliferation, but daily dosing would lead to cumulative toxicity, especially bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity. A weekly dose—typically in the 7.5–25 mg range with folic acid on non-dosing days—provides effective control of inflammation while minimizing adverse effects. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes, complete blood count, and kidney function is important. Daily, monthly, or biweekly regimens are not standard for autoimmune treatment, and daily use carries a much higher risk of toxicity despite similar total weekly amounts.

In chronic autoimmune therapy, methotrexate is given once weekly rather than daily. This scheduling balances its immunosuppressive effect with safety: at low doses used for diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, MTX reduces immune cell proliferation, but daily dosing would lead to cumulative toxicity, especially bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity. A weekly dose—typically in the 7.5–25 mg range with folic acid on non-dosing days—provides effective control of inflammation while minimizing adverse effects. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes, complete blood count, and kidney function is important. Daily, monthly, or biweekly regimens are not standard for autoimmune treatment, and daily use carries a much higher risk of toxicity despite similar total weekly amounts.

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