Methotrexate: Remission, Relapse and Safety In Psoriasis Patients
Methotrexate in psoriasis: Efficacy and Safety
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70284/njirm.v6i2.874Keywords:
Methotrexate, Psoriasis, Remission, Relapse, Side effectsAbstract
Background: Methotrexate, in low dose, has been widely used therapy in psoriasis patients. It has a good safety profile if used with proper monitoring. It helps to achieve quick remission and delays relapse. This study was done to evaluate safety and efficacy of methotrexate in terms of adverse drug reaction as well as relapse and remission. This was an observational prospective study performed in dermatology department of a tertiary care government hospital. Methodology: : Total 43 patients with psoriasis were given methotrexate and were evaluated for remission, relapse and adverse drug reactions. Statistical analysis used: MedCalc stastical software was used to evaluate the data. Results: Out of 43 patients, 42 patients achieved remission within 2-24 weeks. (Median - 4 weeks) 28 patients out of 33 showed relapse within the span of 2-24 weeks; while five patients did not show the signs of relapse till six months after stoppage of MTX. Minor adverse reactions were seen in 21% of patients amongst which, only two cases with hepatitis needed withdrawal of methotrexate. Conclusion : Methotrexate is still a near to gold standard therapy for psoriasis. It induces quick remission and delays relapse significantly. Methotrexate, if given with proper monitoring, will have significantly low risk of adverse effects. [Thakkar S NJIRM 2015; 6(2):15-19]
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