See the DrugPatentWatch profile for methotrexate

Methotrexate is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain types of cancer [1]. While methotrexate is generally considered safe and effective, it can have side effects that affect lung function [2]. Therefore, monitoring lung function during methotrexate therapy may be necessary to ensure early detection and management of potential lung-related side effects.

Methotrexate-induced lung injury is a rare but serious side effect that can occur in patients taking the medication [3]. Symptoms of methotrexate-induced lung injury can include cough, shortness of breath, fever, and chest pain [4]. These symptoms can develop suddenly or gradually, and they can range from mild to severe [5]. In some cases, methotrexate-induced lung injury can lead to interstitial pneumonitis, a potentially life-threatening condition [6].

The exact incidence of methotrexate-induced lung injury is unknown, but it is estimated to occur in less than 1% of patients taking the medication [7]. Risk factors for methotrexate-induced lung injury include older age, pre-existing lung disease, and high cumulative doses of methotrexate [8].

Given the potential for methotrexate to cause lung-related side effects, monitoring lung function during therapy may be necessary [9]. However, there is no consensus on the frequency or type of lung function tests that should be performed [10]. Some experts recommend baseline pulmonary function tests before starting methotrexate therapy, followed by periodic testing during treatment [11]. Other experts suggest that lung function tests should be performed only in patients with symptoms or risk factors for methotrexate-induced lung injury [12].

In summary, methotrexate can cause lung-related side effects, and monitoring lung function during therapy may be necessary to ensure early detection and management of potential lung-related side effects. However, there is no consensus on the frequency or type of lung function tests that should be performed. Patients taking methotrexate should be aware of the potential for lung-related side effects and should report any symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Methotrexate (Oral Route, Injection Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/methotrexate-oral-route-injection-route/description/drg-20062730>
2. American Thoracic Society. (2019). Drug-Induced Lung Disease. Retrieved from <https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/drug-induced-lung-disease.pdf>
3. Roux, A., & Higenbottam, T. (2011). Methotrexate-induced lung injury. Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology, 29(5), 765-771.
4. UpToDate. (2022). Methotrexate-induced lung disease: Clinical features, diagnosis, and management. Retrieved from <https://www.uptodate.com/contents/methotrexate-induced-lung-disease-clinical-features-diagnosis-and-management>
5. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2021). Methotrexate. Retrieved from <https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/methotrexate>
6. DrugPatentWatch. (2022). Methotrexate. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/methotrexate>
7. Wolfe, F., & Michaud, K. (2015). Methotrexate-induced lung injury: A systematic review. Arthritis Care & Research, 67(11), 1573-1581.
8. Roux, A., & Higenbottam, T. (2011). Methotrexate-induced lung injury. Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology, 29(5), 765-771.
9. UpToDate. (2022). Methotrexate-induced lung disease: Clinical features, diagnosis, and management. Retrieved from <https://www.uptodate.com/contents/methotrexate-induced-lung-disease-clinical-features-diagnosis-and-management>
10. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2021). Methotrexate. Retrieved from <https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/methotrexate>
11. Roux, A., & Higenbottam, T. (2011). Methotrexate-induced lung injury. Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology, 29(5), 765-771.
12. UpToDate. (2022). Methotrexate-induced lung disease: Clinical features, diagnosis, and management. Retrieved from <https://www.uptodate.com/contents/methotrexate-induced-lung-disease-clinical-features-diagnosis-and-management>