Methotrexate is a versatile therapeutic application across multiple medical fields. It is used to treat a wide range of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and breast cancer. It is also used to treat non-cancer diseases like Crohn's disease, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate follows the mechanism of destroying DNA material, halting DNA synthesis and replication in cancer cells. In an autoimmunity condition, it is responsible for calming an overreactive and autoimmune system. This way it reduces inflammation and self-tissue damage.
Common side effects of methotrexate include fatigue, nausea, mouth sores, abdominal discomfort, mild hair loss, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. Serious risks include low blood counts, liver toxicity, and lung inflammation. Liver fibrosis can result from prolonged use, particularly in people with alcoholism or liver problems.