What Vegetables Should Be Avoided When Taking Methotrexate?

Methotrexate, also known as amethopterin or MTX, is sold under the brand names Rheumatrex and Trexall. It is mainly used to treat severe forms psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and certain types of cancer. It is also used to terminate pregnancies. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes if you are taking this medication.

Those taking methotrexate for psoriasis, cancer or rheumatoid arthritis should continue to follow their regular diets, unless directed otherwise by their doctors, according to the National Institutes of Health. The University of Tennessee Medical Center advises those who experience diarrhea as a side effect of methotrexate to reduce their consumption of or completely avoid high-fiber foods, including raw fruits and vegetables.

According the the National Institutes of Health, methotrexate can interfere with the absorption of folate, the natural form of folic acid. Folate deficiencies can result in slowed growth in children, certain types of anemia, digestive and behavioral disorders, weakness, heart palpitations and an elevated level of homocysteine in the blood, a risk factor for heart disease. In addition to taking a folic-acid supplement, eat folate-rich foods, including leafy green vegetables, fruits and beans.

Methotrexate has been used since the early 1980s to terminate pregnancies. The medication stops cells in the placenta from dividing and multiplying. Foods that contain folate can interfere with this process and should be avoided in the week after administration of methotrexate, according to the Women's Health Center of Miami. Avoid eating dark leafy greens, broccoli, peas, beets and beans, especially kidney, black, lima and lentils.

Methotrexate is a strong drug with a host of possible side effects and warnings. Consult your doctor about possible complications from combining methotrexate with other prescribed or over-the-counter medications. The drug can cause liver damage, kidney damage and decreased blood-cell counts, so tell your doctor about any liver, kidney or blood conditions if he's considering this medication for you.