See the DrugPatentWatch profile for methotrexate

Methotrexate is a medication commonly used to treat various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain types of cancer [1]. When it comes to dosing, several factors come into play, including the patient's age, weight, kidney and liver function, and the specific condition being treated [2].

In the case of seniors, or adults aged 65 and older, the dosage of methotrexate may differ from that of younger adults due to age-related changes in drug metabolism and elimination [3]. As a result, lower doses are often recommended for seniors to minimize the risk of adverse effects [4].

According to the American College of Rheumatology, the recommended starting dose of methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis is typically 7.5 to 10 mg per week, regardless of age [5]. However, for seniors, the dose may be started lower and increased more slowly over time [6].

It is important to note that the dosage of methotrexate can vary widely depending on the individual patient and their specific medical condition [7]. Therefore, it is crucial that seniors receive individualized care and that their dosage be carefully monitored by a healthcare provider [8].

In summary, while the recommended starting dose of methotrexate may be similar for seniors and younger adults, the dosage for seniors may be started lower and increased more slowly over time due to age-related changes in drug metabolism and elimination.

Sources:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Methotrexate (Oral Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/methotrexate-oral-route/description/drg-20062736>.
2. UpToDate. (2021). Patient education: Methotrexate (Beyond the Basics). Retrieved from <https://www.uptodate.com/contents/methotrexate-beyond-the-basics?search=methotrexate%20dosage&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=1>.
3. National Institute on Aging. (2021). Age Page: Older Adults and Medicines. Retrieved from <https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/older-adults-and-medicines>.
4. American Geriatrics Society. (2019). 2019 Beers Criteria Update Expert Panel. Retrieved from <https://www.americangeriatrics.org/2019-beers-criteria-update-expert-panel>.
5. American College of Rheumatology. (2015). 2015 American College of Rheumatology Guideline for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Retrieved from <https://www.rheumatology.org/Portals/0/Files/ACR%202015%20Rheumatoid%20Arthritis%20Guideline.pdf>.
6. UpToDate. (2021). Rheumatoid arthritis treatment: Initial therapy. Retrieved from <https://www.uptodate.com/contents/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment-initial-therapy?search=methotrexate%20dosage&source=search_result&selectedTitle=1~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=11>.
7. Drugs.com. (2021). Methotrexate. Retrieved from <https://www.drugs.com/mtx.html>.
8. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Methotrexate (Oral Route). Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/methotrexate-oral-route/description/drg-20062736>.