Will methotrexate cause weight loss?

Have you recently been prescribed Methotrexate? Are you wondering if this medication will help shed some pounds? Well, hold on to your hats folks because we’re about to dive in and find out the truth!

What is Methotrexate?

Before we talk about weight loss effects of methotrexate, let’s get down to what it actually is. Methotrexate is a drug that is used to treat various autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease. It works by suppressing the immune system so that it stops attacking healthy tissues.

How Does It Work?

The exact mechanism of how methotrexate helps with autoimmune diseases isn’t crystal clear but it appears that it inhibits inflammation through reducing abnormal immune responses in certain cells. In simpler terms – by stopping the immune system from working overtime which causes inflammation throughout our body.

Can You Really Lose Weight With Methorexate?

Now here comes the big question- can taking methotreaxte really lead to weight loss? The simple answer is YES! Studies have shown that patients who take high doses of methotreaxte as part of their cancer treatment regimen may experience unintended weight loss (1). However,methotreaxte-induced anorexia (A.K.A unexplained appetite suppression) occurs only occasionally (<20% cases) both for short term use or long-term exposure anti-inflammatory dose used in Rheumatic disease(2).

Accordingly,it’s essential not rely on using this medication as a primary tool for having ‘beach ready abs’. That being said, there are other lifestyle changes you can make alongside taking methotreaxte (If prescribed) which may aid sustainable quicker fatloss journey(unhindered side effects from active drugs), like:

  • Healthy diet plan
  • Decrease those carbs & soda, Increase those veggies&proteins
  • Not sure where to start? Collaborate with a dietician!
  • Adding regular physical activity
    • Incorporating cardio and strength training into your routine
    • Keep it fun by considering workouts that you enjoy(example:boxing) or maybe consider incorporating activities like dancing or swimming.
  • Sleeping Well
    • Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. This will help regulate hormones responsible for metabolism.

Are There Any Methotrexate Side Effects?

As with many medications, there are side effects associated with using methotrexate but weight loss isn’t really among them. The most common side effect is nausea which can be managed through anti-nausea medication prescriptions(3).

Other possible side effects include:

  • Increased risk of infections due to decreased immunity
  • Dizziness, headache or lightheadedness about the head area
    (Move slowly from lying down/sitting)
  • Rash on skin – sometimes hives/ pimples may arise

It’s vital to talk to your doctor when beginning this drug since they should inform you accordingly on symptoms commonly experienced and suggest suitable measures as required.

How To Take Methotrexate?

Methotrexate comes in pill form and injection form.

For rheumatoid arthritis patients as an example,intra-muscular injections prove more potent than oral pills although both ways work well just fine irrespective of time consumed(4). If administered orally,the single dose intake on each administration is preferred over multiple small doses throughout the day period;usually taken weekly/daily. Additionally, do not drink any alcoholic beverages when taking methotreaxte because alcohol increases the chance of liver damage(5).

Table1 provides brief summary information how some autoimmune conditions related drugs are generally used(as at 2021/general guide)

Drug Name Route & Time Taken Frequency What Symptoms are Treated?
Methotrexate IM or Oral IM1 day/Wk,OR oral one/two days/week for arthritis. Otherwise varies (based on severity) depending on autoimmune condition e.g.Psoriasis Rheumatoid arthritis & other rheumatic disease symptoms; Psoriasis and some types of Cancer
Humira (anti-TNF) Subcutaneous injection every two/three weeks. Inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD), Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, etc.
Rituxan(rituximab) Intravenous Infusion-2infusions over course of fortnight then continued according to physician’s instruction
## Conclusion

There you have it folks! Methotrexate indeed may cause weight loss as a side-effect but do not base your road to losing weight solely off the usage of this medication since long term regular use could lead to oxidative stress thereby increasing appetite via chemical regulation in the body . Speak with your doctor if you’re concerned about any possible side effects because everyone reacts differently to medications(exercise caution when taking drug cocktails just like taking mixtures- martinis)

Always remember that lifestyle changes like healthy eating habits,a consistent exercise regimen and adequate rest play significant roles in maintaining an optimum health status – this makes our progress towards having those ‘summer bodies’ more sustainable than relying completely on methotreaxte-induced unexplained appetite suppression.
(None can say no to their favourite cocktail from time-to-time though).

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