Methotrexate (Rheumatrex) is a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug intended for the treatment of arthritis and related rheumatic diseases. This type of medication can be administered orally or as an injection and is usually taken once per week. If your child is prescribed methotrexate, discuss any potential side effects with your pediatrician before your child begins treatment.
Upset Stomach
The most common side effect observed in children who take methotrexate is an upset stomach. After your child takes her weekly dose of methotrexate she might complain of nausea or begin vomiting. As a result of these symptoms, your child could experience a decrease in appetite, which could lead to weight loss. Methotrexate can also cause stomach or abdominal pain in some children. Diarrhea, which may be accompanied by bloating or abdominal cramping, is also a common side effect of methotrexate. These side effects should be discussed with your child's pediatrician if they develop, as he may need to lower the dose of medication your child is receiving. Symptoms associated with upset stomach typically diminish with continued use of methotrexate.
Mouth Sores
Mouth sores develop is approximately 1 to 3 percent of patients who receive methotrexate treatment, the American College of Rheumatology reports. These mouth sores---referred to as stomatitis---cause inflammation and pain to develop along the gum line, cheeks and tongue. Swollen skin lesions within the mouth can interfere with the ability to eat, which can cause dehydration or malnutrition to occur. Typically, children treated with methotrexate are also given folic acid supplements to prevent or treat these mouth sores.
Skin Rash
Children who receive methotrexate treatment occasionally develop a skin rash. Your child's skin can develop red, inflamed patches that can appear dry, flaky or itchy. Your child's pediatrician may temporarily stop the methotrexate treatment to allow the rash to resolve. Once this occurs, your child will likely be given a lower dose of methotrexate to help prevent the occurrence of side effects.
Abnormal Blood Count
While receiving methotrexate treatment, your child will need to receive regular blood checks every 2 to 8 weeks to monitor his blood count. This medication can cause your child's blood levels of white blood cells, platelets or red blood cells to decrease. If this occurs, additional symptoms such as bleeding, bruising or fatigue can develop, explains the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle.
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