The chemotherapy drug methotrexate is classified as an antimetabolite, as it slows the replication of certain cells. Methotrexate can cause serious side effects, so it generally is used only for life-threatening disease or for serious illness that has not responded to less toxic medication. Weight loss is a possible side effect you could experience during treatment with methotrexate.
Uses
Methotrexate is available in oral and injectable forms. The U.S. National Library of Medicine website MedlinePlus only shows the injectable form of methotrexate as causing weight loss. Methotrexate as an injection is primarily used to treat life-threatening cancer and severe psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis that have not improved with other medication.
Function
Methotrexate inhibits an enzyme involved in DNA production, an action that blocks a cell's ability to repair itself and to replicate. The drug targets rapidly replicating cells, such as those in malignant tumors and in psoriasis-affected skin. Its precise mechanism for treating rheumatoid arthritis is unclear, but since rheumatoid arthritis is considered an autoimmune disorder, methotrexate may affect the immune system, according to MedlinePlus.
Common Side Effects
Weight loss is common with this drug, reports MedlinePlus. Some methotrexate side effects that may contribute to weight loss include loss of appetite, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores and generally feeling unwell. Other common side effects you could experience when being treated with methotrexate include thinning hair, brittle hair and acne.
Serious Effects
Some possible side effects of methotrexate call for medical attention. Call your doctor if you develop severe mouth sores, or severe vomiting or diarrhea. These effects can lead to dehydration and electrolyte depletion. Also consult your doctor or seek emergency attention if you develop unusual bruising or bleeding, red urine, black stools, fever and chills, dizziness, shortness of breath, a sore throat, a rash, swelling of your feet or ankles, joint pain, jaundice or a seizure.
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