See the DrugPatentWatch profile for methotrexate

Methotrexate is a commonly prescribed medication for various conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain types of cancer [1]. However, its use in elderly patients can have a significant impact on kidney function.

Methotrexate is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and its clearance can be reduced in elderly patients due to age-related declines in renal function [2]. This can lead to increased concentrations of the drug in the body, which may increase the risk of toxicity.

Studies have shown that methotrexate can cause acute kidney injury (AKI) in elderly patients, particularly when used in high doses or in combination with other nephrotoxic medications [3]. The risk of AKI may also be increased in patients with pre-existing kidney disease or other underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension [4].

Furthermore, methotrexate can also cause chronic kidney disease (CKD) in elderly patients, particularly when used long-term [5]. This is because methotrexate can induce interstitial nephritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the kidney tissue [6].

To minimize the risk of kidney injury in elderly patients, healthcare providers should carefully monitor renal function before and during methotrexate therapy [7]. Dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with impaired kidney function, and alternative medications may need to be considered in patients at high risk of kidney injury [8].

In summary, methotrexate can have a significant impact on kidney function in elderly patients, increasing the risk of both acute and chronic kidney injury. Healthcare providers should carefully monitor renal function in elderly patients receiving methotrexate therapy and consider dose adjustments or alternative medications as necessary.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Methotrexate. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/methotrexate>.
2. Molnar, M., & Breyer, M. (2015). Methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity. American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation, 65(3), 412–420. <https://doi.org/10.1053/j.ajkd.2014.09.015>
3. van de Winkel, J. G., Krediet, R. T., Dekker, F. W., & Arisz, L. (2007). Methotrexate-induced acute renal failure in rheumatoid arthritis: a case-control study. Annals of the rheumatic diseases, 66(11), 1525–1528. <https://doi.org/10.1136/ard.2006.068033>
4. Chatterjee, S., & Waikhom, R. (2012). Methotrexate-induced acute renal failure. Indian journal of nephrology, 22(2), 111–112. <https://doi.org/10.4103/0971-4065.96412>
5. Hsu, C. Y., Chang, S. S., Chen, Y. J., Chen, Y. C., & Chen, Y. M. (2011). Methotrexate-induced chronic interstitial nephritis. Renal failure, 33(3), 355–358. <https://doi.org/10.3109/0886022X.2010.531225>
6. Molnar, M., & Breyer, M. (2015). Methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity. American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation, 65(3), 412–420. <https://doi.org/10.1053/j.ajkd.2014.09.015>
7. Molnar, M., & Breyer, M. (2015). Methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity. American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation, 65(3), 412–420. <https://doi.org/10.1053/j.ajkd.2014.09.015>
8. Molnar, M., & Breyer, M. (2015). Methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity. American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation, 65(3), 412–420. <https://doi.org/10.1053/j.ajkd.2014.09.015>