See the DrugPatentWatch profile for methotrexate

Methotrexate, a medication commonly used to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain types of cancer, can potentially impact the effectiveness of other drugs. However, whether it improves or worsens drug effectiveness depends on the specific drugs and circumstances involved.

Methotrexate works by inhibiting the action of an enzyme necessary for the replication of DNA and RNA, which can slow or stop the growth of cells. This can be beneficial in treating conditions where cell growth is uncontrolled, but it can also affect the body's ability to process and respond to other medications.

In some cases, methotrexate can enhance the effectiveness of other drugs. For instance, it can increase the effectiveness of some chemotherapy drugs when used in combination [1]. This is because methotrexate can make certain cancer cells more susceptible to the effects of these drugs.

On the other hand, methotrexate can also decrease the effectiveness of other drugs by interacting with them. For example, methotrexate can reduce the effectiveness of some antibiotics and antiviral drugs by interfering with their metabolism [2]. This can lead to reduced efficacy of these drugs and potentially increased risk of treatment failure or drug resistance.

It's important to note that drug interactions can be complex and unpredictable, and the effects of methotrexate on drug effectiveness can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the dosage of methotrexate, the specific drugs involved, the individual patient's health status, and other factors.

Therefore, it's crucial for patients taking methotrexate to inform their healthcare providers of all other medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies. Healthcare providers can then evaluate the potential for drug interactions and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

In summary, methotrexate can both improve and worsen the effectiveness of other drugs, depending on the specific drugs and circumstances involved. Patients taking methotrexate should inform their healthcare providers of all other medications they are taking to evaluate the potential for drug interactions.

Sources:
[1] "Methotrexate." National Cancer Institute, 2021, <https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/methotrexate>.
[2] "Methotrexate Interactions." Drugs.com, 2021, <https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/methotrexate,interactions.html>.
[3] "Methotrexate." DrugPatentWatch, 2021, <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/methotrexate>.