Question
I have been on weekly treatment of methotrexate injection over the past four years. My age is 45, and I have been diagnosed with RA since my age of 26. Are there any adverse effects on my vital organs like kidney, etc. on account of this prolonged treatment?
Answer
The main side effect of methotrexate is liver toxicity. In the past, liver biopsies were done on patients with long term usage of methotrexate. However, after careful review of all the studies, the American College of Rheumatology no longer recommends liver iopsy unless the liver blood tests are abnormal. Alcohol is risk factor for liver problems and you should limit your alcohol consumption– for most patients I recommend limiting to 1 or 2 beverages per week.
