Methotrexate

Many children who have JA are put on methotrexate. Methotrexate is a DMARD which stands for a disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug. This drug takes quite a while to kick in, it can take up to twelve weeks for patients to feel any relief. Methotrexate is typically prescribed with a NSAID which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to reduce swelling in joints and alleviate pain. While taking this drug you need to frequently get blood work to monitor for potentially dangerous side effects such as liver problems and low blood cell counts or even lung problems. While taking this drug you must take folic acid because methotrexate interferes with your body's ability to use folate. One lovely side effect of this drug is that it makes you nauseous, just peachy huh? While taking methotrexate alcohol is absolutely off limits because the drug may already cause liver damage so drinking increases the risk of damage to the liver.

Other than all of the fabulous things listed above about this medication is also used as a chemotherapy to treat cancer patients.