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Kameda H, Yamaoka K, Yamanishi Y, Tada M, Koike R, Nakajima A, Fusama M, Fujii T. Japan College of Rheumatology guidance for the use of methotrexate in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Secondary publication. Mod Rheumatol 2023; 34:1-10. [PMID: 37819199 DOI: 10.1093/mr/road098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX), the anchor drug in the current treatment strategy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), was first approved for the treatment of RA in Japan in 1999 at a recommended dose of 6-8 mg/week. The approved maximum dose of MTX has been 16 mg/week since February 2011 when MTX was approved as a first-line drug in the treatment of RA. Recent evidence of MTX-polyglutamate concentration in the red blood cells of Japanese patients with RA justifies the current daily use of MTX in Japan. Additionally, after a nationwide clinical trial, a subcutaneous MTX injection formula (7.5-15 mg/week) was approved for RA treatment in September 2022. Therefore, in March 2023, a subcommittee of the Japan College of Rheumatology updated the guidance (formerly 'guidelines') for the use of MTX in Japanese patients with RA. This article, an abridged English translation summarizing the 2023 update of the Japan College of Rheumatology guidance for the use of MTX and management of patients with RA, will be helpful to both Japanese and global rheumatology communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideto Kameda
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Toho University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kunihiro Yamaoka
- Department of Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Masahiro Tada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryuji Koike
- Health Science Research and Development Center of Medical Hospital, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayako Nakajima
- Center for Rheumatic Diseases, Mie University Hospital, Mie, Japan
- Department of Rheumatology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Mie, Japan
| | - Mie Fusama
- School of Nursing, Takarazuka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takao Fujii
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
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2
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ERGİN AD, OLTULU Ç, TÜRKER NP, DEMİRBOLAT GM. In vitro hepatotoxicity evaluation of methotrexate-loaded niosome formulation: fabrication, characterization and cell culture studies. Turk J Med Sci 2023; 53:872-882. [PMID: 38031943 PMCID: PMC10760534 DOI: 10.55730/1300-0144.5651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methotrexate (MTX) is a folic acid antagonist that is widely used to treat osteosarcoma, leukemia, breast cancer, and autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The most important concerns with MTX are its poor solubility and high toxicity, particularly in liver cells. To enhance its solubility and to minimize its toxicity, we encapsulated MTX in niosomes and investigated its hepatotoxicity mechanisms using genetic biomarkers. METHODS Niosomes were successfully prepared using a modified thin film method, and the prepared monodisperse smallsized formulation was subsequently characterized. In vitro cytotoxicity studies were performed both in hepatocarcinoma (HEP3G) and healthy liver (AML12) cell lines. Specifically, immunofluorescence assay and evaluation of the expression levels of apoptotic, antioxidant, heat shock protein, and oxidative stress genes were performed. RESULTS The formulation had a particle size of 117.1 ± 33 nm, a surface charge of -38.41 ± 0.7 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency of 59.7% ± 2.3%. The results showed that the niosomal formulation exhibited significantly higher cytotoxic effects in HEP3G than in AML12. The immunofluorescence and genetic analyses showed that the increased cytotoxicity of niosomes resulted mainly from oxidative stress and slight apoptosis. DISCUSSION These results demonstrated that niosomal drug delivery systems could be a new potential formulation for minimizing MTX-related hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Doğan ERGİN
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino,
Italy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Trakya University, Edirne,
Turkiye
| | - Çağatay OLTULU
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Trakya University, Edirne,
Turkiye
| | - Nebiye Pelin TÜRKER
- Technology Research Development Application and Research Center, Trakya University, Edirne,
Turkiye
| | - Gülen Melike DEMİRBOLAT
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University, İstanbul,
Turkiye
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Kondiah PPD, Rants’o TA, Makhathini SS, Mdanda S, Choonara YE. An Oral 3D Printed PLGA-Tocopherol PEG Succinate Nanocomposite Hydrogel for High-Dose Methotrexate Delivery in Maintenance Chemotherapy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1470. [PMID: 35884775 PMCID: PMC9313284 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
High-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) is one of the chemotherapeutic agents used to treat a variety of cancers in both adults and children. However, the toxicity associated with HDMTX has resulted in the spread of infections and treatment interruption. Further, poor bioavailability due to efflux pump activities mediated by P-glycoprotein has also been linked to poor therapeutic effects of methotrexate following oral administrations. D-α-Tocopheryl poly-ethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) is known to improve the bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs by inhibiting P-gp efflux activities, thus enhancing cellular uptake. Therefore, to achieve improved bioavailability for MTX, this study aimed to design and develop a novel drug delivery system employing TPGS and a biodegradable polymer, i.e., PLGA, to construct methotrexate-loaded nanoparticles fixated in alginate-gelatine 3D printable hydrogel ink to form a solid 3D printed tablet for oral delivery. The results indicated that high accuracy (>95%) of the 3D printed tablets was achieved using a 25 G needle. In vitro, drug release profiles were investigated at pH 1.2 and pH 7.4 to simulate the gastrointestinal environment. The in vitro release profile displayed a controlled and prolonged release of methotrexate over 24 h. The in silico modeling study displayed P-gp ATPase inhibition, suggesting enhanced MTX absorption from the gastrointestinal site. The 3D-printed hydrogel-based tablet has the potential to overcome the chemotherapeutic challenges that are experienced with conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yahya E. Choonara
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa; (P.P.D.K.); (T.A.R.); (S.S.M.); (S.M.)
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4
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Moshikur RM, Ali MK, Wakabayashi R, Moniruzzaman M, Goto M. Methotrexate-based ionic liquid as a potent anticancer drug for oral delivery: In vivo pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and antitumor efficacy. Int J Pharm 2021; 608:121129. [PMID: 34562557 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Oral delivery of the sparingly soluble drug methotrexate (MTX) is challenging owing to its poor bioavailability and low solubility. To address this challenge, the present study reports the conversion of MTX into a series of five ionic liquids (ILs) comprising a cationic component-i.e., cholinium (Cho), tetramethylammonium (TMA), tetrabutylphosphonium (TBP), or an amino acid ester-and an anionic component-i.e., MTX. The biocompatibility, pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and antitumor efficacy of each MTX-based IL were investigated to determine its usefulness as a pharmaceutical. Oral administration to mice revealed that proline ethyl ester MTX (IL[ProEt][MTX]) had 4.6-fold higher oral bioavailability than MTX sodium, followed by aspartic diethyl ester MTX, IL[TBP][MTX], IL[Cho][MTX], and IL[TMA][MTX]. The peak plasma concentration, elimination half-life, area under the plasma concentration, mean absorption time, and body clearance of IL[ProEt][MTX] were significantly (p < 0.0001) higher by 1.7-, 6.2-, 4.6-, 2.5-, and 3.6-fold, respectively, than those of MTX sodium. MTX accumulation in the lungs, spleen, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract was also reduced by 5.6-, 1.8-, 1.5-, and 1.4-fold, respectively, indicating the IL formulations had lower systemic toxicity than free MTX. Mechanistic studies revealed that the IL[ProEt][MTX] solution formed spherical structures with an average size of 190 nm. This was probably responsible for its improved oral absorption performance in vivo. In vivo antitumor studies also demonstrated that IL[ProEt][MTX] suppressed tumor growth more than MTX sodium. These results suggest that MTX-based ILs provide a simple scalable approach to improving the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble MTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahman Md Moshikur
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan.
| | - Md Korban Ali
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan; Department of Chemistry, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh.
| | - Rie Wakabayashi
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan; Advanced Transdermal Drug Delivery System Center, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan.
| | - Muhammad Moniruzzaman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia.
| | - Masahiro Goto
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan; Advanced Transdermal Drug Delivery System Center, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan; Division of Biotechnology, Center for Future Chemistry, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan.
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5
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Angiolillo AL, Schore RJ, Kairalla JA, Devidas M, Rabin KR, Zweidler-McKay P, Borowitz MJ, Wood B, Carroll AJ, Heerema NA, Relling MV, Hitzler J, Lane AR, Maloney KW, Wang C, Bassal M, Carroll WL, Winick NJ, Raetz EA, Loh ML, Hunger SP. Excellent Outcomes With Reduced Frequency of Vincristine and Dexamethasone Pulses in Standard-Risk B-Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Results From Children's Oncology Group AALL0932. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:1437-1447. [PMID: 33411585 DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.00494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE AALL0932 evaluated two randomized maintenance interventions to optimize disease-free survival (DFS) while reducing the burden of therapy in children with newly diagnosed NCI standard-risk (SR) B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). METHODS AALL0932 enrolled 9,229 patients with B-ALL; 2,364 average-risk (AR) patients were randomly assigned (2 × 2 factorial design) at the start of maintenance therapy to vincristine/dexamethasone pulses every 4 (VCR/DEX4) or every 12 (VCR/DEX12) weeks, and a starting dose of weekly oral methotrexate of 20 mg/m2 (MTX20) or 40 mg/m2 (MTX40). RESULTS Five-year event-free survival and overall survival (OS) from enrollment (with 95% CIs), for all eligible and evaluable SR B-ALL patients (n = 9,226), were 92.0% (91.1% and 92.8%) and 96.8% (96.2% and 97.3%), respectively. The 5-year DFS and OS from the start of maintenance for randomly assigned AR patients were 94.6% (93.3% and 95.9%) and 98.5% (97.7% and 99.2%), respectively. The 5-year DFS and OS for patients randomly assigned to receive VCR/DEX4 (n = 1,186) versus VCR/DEX12 (n = 1,178) were 94.1% (92.2% and 96.0%) and 98.3% (97.2% and 99.4%) v 95.1% (93.3% and 96.9%) and 98.6% (97.7% and 99.6%), respectively (P = .86 and .69). The 5-year DFS and OS for AR patients randomly assigned to receive MTX20 versus MTX40 were 95.1% (93.3% and 96.8%) and 98.8% (97.9% and 99.7%) v 94.2% (92.2% and 96.1%) and 98.1% (97.0% and 99.2%), respectively (P = .92 and .89). CONCLUSIONS The 0NCI-SR AR B-ALL who received VCR/DEX12 had outstanding outcomes despite receiving one third of the vincristine/dexamethasone pulses previously used as standard of care on Children's Oncology Group (COG) trials. The higher starting dose of MTX of 40 mg/m2/week did not improve outcomes when compared with 20 mg/m2/week. The decreased frequency of vincristine/dexamethasone pulses has been incorporated into frontline COG B-ALL trials to decrease the burden of therapy for patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne L Angiolillo
- Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC.,George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
| | - Reuven J Schore
- Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC.,George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
| | - John A Kairalla
- Department of Biostatistics, Colleges of Medicine and Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Meenakshi Devidas
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Karen R Rabin
- Texas Children's Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | | | - Michael J Borowitz
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD
| | - Brent Wood
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Nyla A Heerema
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | | | | | | | - Kelly W Maloney
- Children's Hospital Colorado and the Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Cindy Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Colleges of Medicine and Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Mylène Bassal
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON
| | - William L Carroll
- Department of Pediatrics and Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Naomi J Winick
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Elizabeth A Raetz
- Department of Pediatrics and Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Mignon L Loh
- Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, and the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Stephen P Hunger
- Department of Pediatrics and the Center for Childhood Cancer Research, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Yu WJ, Huang DX, Liu S, Sha YL, Gao FH, Liu H. Polymeric Nanoscale Drug Carriers Mediate the Delivery of Methotrexate for Developing Therapeutic Interventions Against Cancer and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1734. [PMID: 33042817 PMCID: PMC7526065 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is widely used as an anticancer and anti-inflammtory drug for treating various types of cancer and autoimmune diseases. The optimal dose of MTX is known to inhibit the dihydrofolatereductase that hinders the replication of purines. The nanobiomedicine has been extensively explored in the past decade to develop myriad functional nanostructures to facilitate the delivery of therapeutic agents for various medical applications. This review is focused on understanding the design and development of MTX-loaded nanoparticles alongside the inclusion of recent findings for the treatment of cancers. In this paper, we have made a coordinated effort to show the potential of novel drug delivery systems by achieving effective and target-specific delivery of methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jun Yu
- The Eastern Division, Department of Hand and Foot Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dong-Xu Huang
- The Eastern Division, Department of Hand and Foot Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- The Eastern Division, Department of Nursing Management, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying-Li Sha
- The Eastern Division, Department of Pediatrics, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Feng-Hui Gao
- The Eastern Division, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hong Liu
- The Eastern Division, Department of Otolaryngology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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7
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Yang V, Gouveia MJ, Santos J, Koksch B, Amorim I, Gärtner F, Vale N. Breast cancer: insights in disease and influence of drug methotrexate. RSC Med Chem 2020; 11:646-664. [PMID: 33479665 PMCID: PMC7578709 DOI: 10.1039/d0md00051e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The previously estimated 14 million new cases in the year of 2012 are expected to rise, yearly, over the following 2 decades. Among women, breast cancer is the most common one. In 2012, almost 1.7 million people were diagnosed worldwide and half a million died from the disease. Despite having several treatments available, from surgery to chemotherapy, most of these treatments have severe adverse effects. Chemotherapy has a narrow therapeutic window and requires high dosage treatment in patients with advanced-stage cancers and further need innovative treatment strategies. Although methotrexate (MTX) is not a first line drug used against breast cancer, however, it might be valuable to fight the disease. MTX is an effective and cheap drug that might impair malignant growth without irreversible damage to normal tissues. Nevertheless, while MTX does present some disadvantages including poor solubility and low permeability, several strategies are being used to discover and provide novel and effective targeted treatment against breast cancer. In this review, we analyze the chemotherapy of breast cancer and its relationship with drug MTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vítor Yang
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology , Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS) , University of Porto , Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal .
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S) , University of Porto , Rua Alfredo Allen, 208 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
| | - Maria João Gouveia
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology , Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS) , University of Porto , Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal .
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S) , University of Porto , Rua Alfredo Allen, 208 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
| | - Joana Santos
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S) , University of Porto , Rua Alfredo Allen, 208 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
| | - Beate Koksch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , Freie Universität Berlin , Takustrasse 3 , 14195 Berlin , Germany
| | - Irina Amorim
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology , Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS) , University of Porto , Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal .
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S) , University of Porto , Rua Alfredo Allen, 208 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP) , Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology , Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS) , University of Porto , Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal .
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S) , University of Porto , Rua Alfredo Allen, 208 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP) , Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology , Abel Salazar Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBAS) , University of Porto , Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228 , 4050-313 Porto , Portugal .
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S) , University of Porto , Rua Alfredo Allen, 208 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP) , Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45 , 4200-135 Porto , Portugal
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Maleki A, Ueberroth JA, Walsh M, Foster F, Chang PY, Anesi SD, Foster CS. Combination of Intravenous Methotrexate and Methylprednisolone Therapy in the Treatment of Severe Ocular Inflammatory Diseases. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2020; 29:1559-1563. [PMID: 32406782 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2020.1746356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of intravenous methotrexate and methylprednisolone in severe, sight-threatening ocular inflammatory conditions.Methods: This was a retrospective observational case series. Patients who had received intravenous methotrexate for ocular inflammation with at least 24 months of follow-up were included in the study.Results: Ten patients (20 eyes) were included in this study. Mean age of the patients was 47.2 ± 17.7 (range:19-74). At 1-month follow-up visit, nine patients showed improvement and one patient failed treatment. At 12-month follow-up visit, all patients were in remission. Two patients were only on intravenous methotrexate infusions. At twenty-four-month follow-up visit, only one patient, in remission, was on intravenous methotrexate therapy. Leukopenia was the only adverse effect observed.Conclusion: Intravenous methotrexate and methylprednisolone infusions can be an effective method of treatment in patients with severe, sight-threatening ocular inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Maleki
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.,The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jordan A Ueberroth
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.,The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marisa Walsh
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.,The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Frances Foster
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.,The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter Y Chang
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.,The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephen D Anesi
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.,The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Charles Stephen Foster
- Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.,The Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation, Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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9
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Škorić B, Jovanović M, Miljković B, Kuzmanović M, Vučićević K. Clinical pharmacokinetics of methotrexate in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in pediatric patients. ARHIV ZA FARMACIJU 2020. [DOI: 10.5937/arhfarm2001020x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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10
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Derijks LJJ, Wong DR, Hommes DW, van Bodegraven AA. Clinical Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Considerations in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Clin Pharmacokinet 2019; 57:1075-1106. [PMID: 29512050 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-018-0639-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
According to recent clinical consensus, pharmacotherapy of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is, or should be, personalized medicine. IBD treatment is complex, with highly different treatment classes and relatively few data on treatment strategy. Although thorough evidence-based international IBD guidelines currently exist, appropriate drug and dose choice remains challenging as many disease (disease type, location of disease, disease activity and course, extraintestinal manifestations, complications) and patient characteristics [(pharmaco-)genetic predisposition, response to previous medications, side-effect profile, necessary onset of response, convenience, concurrent therapy, adherence to (maintenance) therapy] are involved. Detailed pharmacological knowledge of the IBD drug arsenal is essential for choosing the right drug, in the right dose, in the right administration form, at the right time, for each individual patient. In this in-depth review, clinical pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic considerations are provided for tailoring treatment with the most common IBD drugs. Development (with consequent prospective validation) of easy-to-use treatment algorithms based on these considerations and new pharmacological data may facilitate optimal and effective IBD treatment, preferably corroborated by effectiveness and safety registries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc J J Derijks
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Máxima Medical Center, PO Box 7777, 5500 MB, Veldhoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Dennis R Wong
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard-Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel W Hommes
- Center for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Adriaan A van Bodegraven
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zuyderland Medical Center, Sittard-Geleen, The Netherlands
- Department of Gastroenterology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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Methotrexate Polyglutamate Values in Children and Adolescents With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia During Maintenance Therapy. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2019; 41:429-432. [PMID: 31259826 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000001530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Inadequate adherence to maintenance therapy is a major cause of relapse in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Therapeutic monitoring of mercaptopurine (thiopurine) red cell metabolites to assess adherence has been available for many years. Recently a clinical laboratory improvement amendments of 1988-approved test for methotrexate with three polyglutamate residues (MTXPG3) measured in peripheral blood red cells was approved. MTXPG3 is the primary intracellular metabolite of methotrexate, and like thiopurine metabolites, is retained for the life of the red cell giving an estimate of drug exposure over time. Normative values for MTXPG3 are available for adults and children with rheumatoid arthritis on methotrexate monotherapy, which are not applicable for patients with ALL on maintenance. Older literature on the MTXPG3 fraction in children with ALL is limited. We examined the MTXPG3 levels from 123 samples in 76 patients with ALL on maintenance oral methotrexate and mercaptopurine that were collected for clinical care. Male individuals had significantly higher MTXPG3 levels than female individuals which was unrelated to absolute neutrophil count, age, serum creatinine, and average doses of methotrexate or mercaptopurine. The MTXPG3 5th, 10th, 90th, and 95th percentile values are 0, 8.4, 53, and 64, respectively with a median of 24.7 nmol/L. The low 5th percentile MTXPG3 reflects 6 samples from 3 patients, age 16 to 21 years that were considered poorly adherent before collecting the specimen. As with red cell thiopurine (mercaptopurine) metabolites, MTXPG3 normative values may provide useful information to monitor for poor patient adherence or methotrexate toxicity during maintenance chemotherapy in ALL.
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Kameda H, Fujii T, Nakajima A, Koike R, Sagawa A, Kanbe K, Tomita T, Harigai M, Suzuki Y. Japan College of Rheumatology guideline for the use of methotrexate in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Mod Rheumatol 2018; 29:31-40. [DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2018.1472358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hideto Kameda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Toho University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takao Fujii
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Ayako Nakajima
- Department of Rheumatology, Center for Rheumatic Diseases, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Mie, Japan
| | - Ryuji Koike
- Medical Innovation Promotion Center, Clinical Research Center of Medical Hospital, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Sagawa
- Sagawa Akira Rheumatology Clinic, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Katsuaki Kanbe
- Department of Kuranomachi Community Medicine, Regional Clinical Education Center, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Tomita
- Department of Orthopaedic Biomaterial Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Harigai
- Division of Epidemiology and Pharmacoepidemiology of Rheumatic Diseases, Institute of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuo Suzuki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
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Abstract
Methotrexate is an antifolate agent used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and various types of cancers. It is a unique antiproliferative agent because it can be administered by multiple routes with a wide variation of dosing. Methotrexate pharmacokinetics have generated numerous papers focusing on descriptive data and pharmacodynamics. Methotrexate is one of the rare anticancer agents which pharmacokinetics are routinely monitoring to control excessive toxicity when administrated at high dose (>1 g/m2). The identification of transporters involved in its disposition has permitted the understanding and the prevention of most drug interactions. Pharmacogenetic factors affecting the expression of MRP2 and OATP1B1 partly explain the interindividual variability of methotrexate clearance. The remaining challenge in methotrexate pharmacokinetics is to further understand unexplained delayed renal elimination despite the implementation of preventive measures.
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Chan BS, Dawson AH, Buckley NA. What can clinicians learn from therapeutic studies about the treatment of acute oral methotrexate poisoning? Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2017; 55:88-96. [DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2016.1271126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Betty S. Chan
- Clinical Toxicology Unit & Emergency Department, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- New South Wales Poisons Information Centre, Sydney, Australia
| | - Andrew H. Dawson
- New South Wales Poisons Information Centre, Sydney, Australia
- Drug Health, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicholas A. Buckley
- New South Wales Poisons Information Centre, Sydney, Australia
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Sawicki E, Schellens JHM, Beijnen JH, Nuijen B. Inventory of oral anticancer agents: Pharmaceutical formulation aspects with focus on the solid dispersion technique. Cancer Treat Rev 2016; 50:247-263. [PMID: 27776286 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2016.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dissolution from the pharmaceutical formulation is a prerequisite for complete and consistent absorption of any orally administered drug, including anticancer agents (oncolytics). Poor dissolution of an oncolytic can result in low oral bioavailability, high variability in blood concentrations and with that suboptimal or even failing therapy. This review discusses pharmaceutical formulation aspects and absorption pharmacokinetics of currently licensed orally administered oncolytics. In nearly half of orally dosed oncolytics poor dissolution is likely to play a major role in low and unpredictable absorption. Dissolution-limited drug absorption can be improved with a solid dispersion which is a formulation method that induces super-saturated drug dissolution and with that it enhances in vivo absorption. This review discusses formulation principles with focus on the solid dispersion technology and how it works to enhance drug absorption. There are currently three licensed orally dosed oncolytics formulated as a solid dispersion (everolimus, vemurafenib and regorafenib) and these formulations result in remarkably improved dissolution and absorption compared to what can be achieved with conventional formulations of the respective oncolytics. Because of the successful implementation of these three solid dispersion formulations, we encourage the application of this formulation method for poorly soluble oral oncolytics.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Sawicki
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute/MC Slotervaart, Louwesweg 6, 1066 EC Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - J H M Schellens
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Science Faculty, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Division of Pharmaco-epidemiology & Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80082, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J H Beijnen
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute/MC Slotervaart, Louwesweg 6, 1066 EC Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Science Faculty, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Division of Pharmaco-epidemiology & Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80082, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - B Nuijen
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute/MC Slotervaart, Louwesweg 6, 1066 EC Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Kremer JM, Lawrence DA, Hamilton R, McInnes IB. Long-term study of the impact of methotrexate on serum cytokines and lymphocyte subsets in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: correlation with pharmacokinetic measures. RMD Open 2016; 2:e000287. [PMID: 27335660 PMCID: PMC4913203 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2016-000287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe changes in immune parameters observed during long-term methotrexate (MTX) therapy in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and explore correlations with simultaneously measured MTX pharmacokinetic (PKC) parameters. Design Prospective, open-label, long-term mechanism of action study. Setting University clinic. Methods MTX was initiated at a single weekly oral dose of 7.5 mg and dose adjusted for efficacy and toxicity for the duration of the study. Standard measures of disease activity were performed at baseline and every 6–36 months. Serum cytokine measurements in blood together with lymphocyte surface immunophenotypes and stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) cytokine production were assessed at each clinical evaluation. Results Cytokine concentrations exhibited multiple significant correlations with disease activity measures over time. The strongest correlations observed were for interleukin (IL)-6 (r=0.45, p<0.0001 for swollen joints and r=0.32, p=0.002 for tender joints) and IL-8 (r=0.25, p=0.01 for swollen joints). Significant decreases from baseline were observed in serum IL-1B, IL-6 and IL-8 concentrations. The most significant changes were observed for IL-6 (p<0.001). Significant increases from baseline were observed in IL-2 release from PBMCs ex vivo (p<0.01). In parallel, multiple statistically significant correlations were observed between MTX PKC measures and immune parameters. The change in swollen joint count correlated inversely with the change in area under the curve (AUC) for MTX (r=−0.63, p=0.007). Conclusions MTX therapy of patients with RA is accompanied by a variety of changes in serum cytokine expression, which in turn correlate strongly with clinical disease activity and MTX pharmacokinetics (PKCs). These data strongly support the notion that MTX mediates profound and functionally relevant effects on the immunological hierarchy in the RA lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel M Kremer
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine , Albany Medical College, and The Center for Rheumatology (JMK), The New York State Department of Health (DAL) the Albany College of Pharmacy (RH), and The University of Glasgow (IBM) , Albany, New York , USA
| | - David A Lawrence
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine , Albany Medical College, and The Center for Rheumatology (JMK), The New York State Department of Health (DAL) the Albany College of Pharmacy (RH), and The University of Glasgow (IBM) , Albany, New York , USA
| | - Robert Hamilton
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine , Albany Medical College, and The Center for Rheumatology (JMK), The New York State Department of Health (DAL) the Albany College of Pharmacy (RH), and The University of Glasgow (IBM) , Albany, New York , USA
| | - Iain B McInnes
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine , Albany Medical College, and The Center for Rheumatology (JMK), The New York State Department of Health (DAL) the Albany College of Pharmacy (RH), and The University of Glasgow (IBM) , Albany, New York , USA
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Abstract
The antileukemic mechanisms of 6-mercaptopurine (6MP) and methotrexate (MTX) maintenance therapy are poorly understood, but the benefits of several years of myelosuppressive maintenance therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia are well proven. Currently, there is no international consensus on drug dosing. Because of significant interindividual and intraindividual variations in drug disposition and pharmacodynamics, vigorous dose adjustments are needed to obtain a target degree of myelosuppression. As the normal white blood cell counts vary by patients' ages and ethnicity, and also within age groups, identical white blood cell levels for 2 patients may not reflect the same treatment intensity. Measurements of intracellular levels of cytotoxic metabolites of 6MP and MTX can identify nonadherent patients, but therapeutic target levels remains to be established. A rise in serum aminotransferase levels during maintenance therapy is common and often related to high levels of methylated 6MP metabolites. However, except for episodes of hypoglycemia, serious liver dysfunction is rare, the risk of permanent liver damage is low, and aminotransferase levels usually normalize within a few weeks after discontinuation of therapy. 6MP and MTX dose increments should lead to either leukopenia or a rise in aminotransferases, and if neither is experienced, poor treatment adherence should be considered. The many genetic polymorphisms that determine 6MP and MTX disposition, efficacy, and toxicity have precluded implementation of pharmacogenomics into treatment, the sole exception being dramatic 6MP dose reductions in patients who are homozygous deficient for thiopurine methyltransferase, the enzyme that methylates 6MP and several of its metabolites. In conclusion, maintenance therapy is as important as the more intensive and toxic earlier treatment phases, and often more challenging. Ongoing research address the applicability of drug metabolite measurements for dose adjustments, extensive host genome profiling to understand diversity in treatment efficacy and toxicity, and alternative thiopurine dosing regimens to improve therapy for the individual patient.
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Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelling of methotrexate and 6-mercaptopurine in adults and children. Part 1: methotrexate. J Pharmacokinet Pharmacodyn 2014; 41:159-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s10928-014-9354-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Khan ZA, Tripathi R, Mishra B. Methotrexate: a detailed review on drug delivery and clinical aspects. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2012; 9:151-69. [DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2012.642362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Abstract
The majority of patients with IBD use conventional therapy (namely, aminosalicylates, antibiotics, corticosteroids and immunomodulatory agents) for prolonged periods of time, to both induce and maintain remission. Treatment paradigms in IBD have evolved towards a rapid escalation of therapy to achieve stringent goals, including mucosal healing and a reduction in the need for hospital admission and surgery. In this context, the failure to optimize conventional therapy can lead to a potentially effective treatment being abandoned too early, which is undesirable when only a limited number of drugs are effective in the management of IBD, and could also lead to patients being unnecessarily exposed to potentially toxic and/or expensive biologic drugs. This Review provides an overview of the many ways in which conventional therapy can be optimized, and describes strategies to improve adherence to drug regimens, such as simplifying the dosing regimen, optimizing drug delivery and dose, and tailoring medication on the basis of metabolite levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin M Taylor
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guy's & St Thomas' Hospitals, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7EH, UK
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Soares PMG, Lopes LO, Mota JMSC, Belarmino-Filho JN, Ribeiro RA, Souza MHLPD. Methotrexate-induced intestinal mucositis delays gastric emptying and gastrointestinal transit of liquids in awake rats. ARQUIVOS DE GASTROENTEROLOGIA 2011; 48:80-5. [DOI: 10.1590/s0004-28032011000100016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2010] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT: Methotrexate and other anticancer agents can induce intestinal mucositis, which is one of the most common limiting factor that prevent further dose escalation of the methotrexate. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the gastric emptying and gastrointestinal transit of liquids in methotrexate-induced intestinal mucositis. METHODS: Wistar rats received methotrexate (2.5 mg/kg/day for 3 days, subcutaneously) or saline. After 1, 3 and 7 days, sections of duodenum, jejunum and ileum were removed for assessment of epithelial damage and myeloperoxidase activity (biochemical marker of granulocyte infiltration). Others rats were pre-treated with methotrexate or saline, gavage-fed after 3 or 7 days with a standard test liquid meal, and sacrificed 10, 20 or 30-min later. Gastric and small intestine dye recoveries were measured by spectrophotometry. RESULTS: After 3 days of methotrexate, there was an epithelial intestinal damage in all segments, with myeloperoxidase activity increase in both in duodenum and ileum. Seven days after methotrexate, we observed a complete reversion of this intestinal damage. There was an increase in gastric dye recoveries after 10, 20, and 30-min post-prandial intervals after 3 days, but not after 7 days, of methotrexate. Intestine dye recoveries were decreased in the first and second segments at 10 min, in the third at 20 min, and in the second and third at 30 min, only after 3 days of methotrexate treatment. CONCLUSION: Methotrexate-induced intestinal mucositis delays gastric emptying and gastrointestinal transit of liquids in awake rats.
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Herfarth HH, Osterman MT, Isaacs KL, Lewis JD, Sands BE. Efficacy of methotrexate in ulcerative colitis: failure or promise. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010; 16:1421-30. [PMID: 20186931 PMCID: PMC2906638 DOI: 10.1002/ibd.21246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-dose methotrexate is a widely used and efficacious therapy in chronic inflammatory disorders such as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. Prospective randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the efficacy of parenteral methotrexate in Crohn's disease (CD). We performed a systematic review of the efficacy of methotrexate in ulcerative colitis (UC) and discuss the results in the context of the known pharmacokinetics and adverse events of methotrexate therapy in inflammatory bowel diseases and other inflammatory conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a systematic review of the literature in Medline, Embase, and Web of Science. All publications describing patients with UC treated with methotrexate were included. RESULTS We identified 12 studies or retrospective case series and 5 meeting abstracts that met the inclusion criteria. Only 1 study reported a prospective randomized placebo-controlled trial using methotrexate at a dose of 12.5 mg orally with no significant clinical benefit. However, the majority of uncontrolled retrospective analyses suggest a clinical response to methotrexate therapy in a range of 30%-80% when the drug is applied by parenteral route in doses between 20-25 mg. CONCLUSIONS The only randomized controlled trial of methotrexate in UC employed oral dosing and doses lower than those shown to be effective in CD and did not demonstrate efficacy, whereas uncontrolled, retrospective studies using doses and routes of administration similar to those employed in CD suggest benefit. Well-designed, prospective, placebo-controlled trials of methotrexate in UC are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans H. Herfarth
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Mark T. Osterman
- Division of Gastroenterology and the Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kim L. Isaacs
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - James D. Lewis
- Division of Gastroenterology and the Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Bruce E. Sands
- MGH Crohn’s and Colitis Center and Gastrointestinal Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Abstract
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) includes several forms of chronic arthritis in children. Treatments are chosen according to the type and severity of the disease. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids remain the mainstays of therapy. Traditional slower acting anti-rheumatic drugs, such as gold therapy, penicillamine, sulfasalazine, tiopronin and hydroxychloroquine, are usually poorly active in children. In addition, adverse effects are common, including severe macrophage activation syndrome with gold therapy or sulfasalazine. Low dose, once weekly methotrexate has emerged as the therapeutic agent of choice for children who fail to respond adequately to the administration of an NSAID, especially in those with the extended oligoarticular subtype of the disease. Other immunosuppressive agents, such as cyclosporin, are sometimes combined with methotrexate. In recent years, novel treatments have been developed. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is effective in a number of children with severe JIA, whose disease has been refractory to conventional therapy. However, only short term follow-up data are currently available for this novel therapy. In addition, severe infections complicated by macrophage activation syndrome and death have been reported. Finally, anti-tumour necrosis factor-alpha therapy has shown efficacy in more than two-thirds of children with JIA and polyarthritis, and other cytokine inhibitors may be soon available.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Prieur
- Department of Paediatric Immunohaematology and Paediatric Rheumatology, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France.
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Abstract
As the cure rates for haematological malignancies have improved, the exploration of the balance between efficacy and side effects has become a major research target. The antifolate methotrexate is widely used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and osteosarcoma. Even when given identical methotrexate doses, patients vary significantly in their response and pattern of toxicities. This diversity can, to some extent, be linked to sequence variations in genes involved in drug absorption, metabolism, excretion, cellular transport, and effector targets or target pathways. In the coming years pharmacogenomics is expected to change our approaches to individualised therapy with methotrexate. However, genetic polymorphisms affect the pharmacokinetics and dynamics of all the drugs a patient receive as well as the normal tissues tolerance to a given drug exposure. Thus, although high-throughput techniques will allow mapping of tens of thousands of genetic polymorphisms in one run, it will be a major challenge to dissect out which of these have the strongest impact on efficacy and toxicity and hence should be the targets for intervention. This paper discusses the pharmacology of methotrexate and reviews studies on haematological malignancies that have attempted to predict the risk of toxicity by specific clinical or genetic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kjeld Schmiegelow
- The Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Paediatrics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Methotrexate treatment in pediatric Crohn disease patients intolerant or resistant to purine analogues. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2009; 48:526-30. [PMID: 19412004 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0b013e318196df3e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunomodulatory drugs play a major role in maintaining remission and steroid sparing in children with Crohn disease. Although thiopurine agents are commonly used, unresponsiveness or intolerance to these drugs is common. The efficacy of methotrexate in maintenance of remission has been shown in adult Crohn disease; however, pediatric data are limited. Our goal was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of methotrexate in induction and maintenance of clinical remission in children with active Crohn disease who failed thiopurine treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS In a retrospective multicenter study, efficacy of methotrexate in inducing and maintaining remission or response was assessed by Harvey-Bradshaw activity index, paediatric Crohn disease activity index and steroid use, in 25 children with Crohn disease, refractory or intolerant to thiopurine analogues. RESULTS Crohn disease was diagnosed at a mean age of 11.1 +/- 3.1 years and methotrexate was initiated at age 14.5 +/- 3.1 years. The median methotrexate dose was 12.5 mg/m2. Remission was achieved in 16 patients (64%), and response in 6 patients (24%). Out of 18 patients treated for longer than 6 months, 83% were in remission or response after 12 months of treatment. The mean duration of remission and response was 10.8 +/- 8.8 months. Steroid withdrawal was possible in 12/16 patients (75%) receiving steroids at methotrexate introduction. Adverse effects were observed in 6 patients (24%) including nausea and vomiting in 3, elevation of liver enzymes in 2 and pancreatitis in 1 patient. CONCLUSIONS Methotrexate is beneficial in maintaining remission and steroid-sparing treatment in children with Crohn disease following failure of thiopurine therapy.
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Soares PMG, Mota JMSC, Gomes AS, Oliveira RB, Assreuy AMS, Brito GAC, Santos AA, Ribeiro RA, Souza MHLP. Gastrointestinal dysmotility in 5-fluorouracil-induced intestinal mucositis outlasts inflammatory process resolution. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2008; 63:91-8. [PMID: 18324404 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-008-0715-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2007] [Accepted: 02/17/2008] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate gastrointestinal motility during 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced intestinal mucositis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Wistar rats received 5-FU (150 mg kg(-1), i.p.) or saline. After the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 15th and 30th day, sections of duodenum, jejunum and ileum were removed for assessment of epithelial damage, apoptotic and mitotic indexes, MPO activity and GSH concentration. In order to study gastrointestinal motility, on the 3rd or 15th day after 5-FU treatment, gastric emptying in vivo was measured by scintilographic method, and stomach or duodenal smooth muscle contractions induced by CCh were evaluated in vitro. RESULTS On the third day of treatment, 5-FU induced a significant villi shortening, an increase in crypt depth and intestinal MPO activity and a decrease in villus/crypt ratio and GSH concentration. On the first day after 5-FU there was an increase in the apoptosis index and a decrease in the mitosis index in all intestinal segments. After the 15th day of 5-FU treatment, a complete reversion of all these parameters was observed. There was a delay in gastric emptying in vivo and a significant increase in gastric fundus and duodenum smooth muscle contraction, after both the 3rd and 15th day. CONCLUSION 5-FU-induced gastrointestinal dysmotility outlasts intestinal mucositis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro M G Soares
- Centro de Biomedicina, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Rodolfo Teófilo, Fortaleza, Brazil
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Turner D, Grossman AB, Rosh J, Kugathasan S, Gilman AR, Baldassano R, Griffiths AM. Methotrexate following unsuccessful thiopurine therapy in pediatric Crohn's disease. Am J Gastroenterol 2007; 102:2804-12; quiz 2803, 2813. [PMID: 18042110 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2007.01474.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The thiopurines, azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine, are traditional first-line immunomodulatory agents in adult and pediatric Crohn's disease, but the comparative efficacy and safety of methotrexate have seldom been examined. We report outcomes with methotrexate treatment in pediatric patients previously refractory to or intolerant of thiopurines. METHODS In a four-center, retrospective cohort study, efficacy of methotrexate in maintaining remission was assessed by PCDAI measurements, steroid use, and height velocity. Patients served as their own historical controls. Multivariable analysis controlled for route of methotrexate administration, reason for thiopurine discontinuation, baseline disease activity, and disease duration. RESULTS Forty-two percent of 60 children treated with methotrexate were in clinical remission without steroids at both 6 and 12 months. A strong steroid sparing effect was observed compared with the year prior to methotrexate (P<0.001). Success rates were similar in previously thiopurine-intolerant and refractory patients. Height velocity increased from -1.9 SDS to -0.14 SDS (P=0.004) in the year following therapy. In a median 3-yr follow-up, a third of the patients did not require escalation of therapy; the others required step-up therapy with infliximab or surgery. Eight children (13%) stopped methotrexate due to adverse events, including, most commonly, elevated liver enzymes, and one serious episode of sepsis. CONCLUSION Methotrexate appears effective in maintaining remission in pediatric Crohn's disease, when thiopurines have failed. Consideration should be given to its use earlier in pediatric treatment algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Turner
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Lichtman SM, Wildiers H, Launay-Vacher V, Steer C, Chatelut E, Aapro M. International Society of Geriatric Oncology (SIOG) recommendations for the adjustment of dosing in elderly cancer patients with renal insufficiency. Eur J Cancer 2007; 43:14-34. [PMID: 17222747 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2006.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2006] [Accepted: 11/09/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A SIOG taskforce was formed to discuss best clinical practice for elderly cancer patients with renal insufficiency. This manuscript outlines recommended dosing adjustments for cancer drugs in this population according to renal function. Dosing adjustments have been made for drugs in current use which have recommendations in renal insufficiency and the elderly, focusing on drugs which are renally eliminated or are known to be nephrotoxic. Recommendations are based on pharmacokinetic and/or pharmacodynamic data where available. The taskforce recommend that before initiating therapy, some form of geriatric assessment should be conducted that includes evaluation of comorbidities and polypharmacy, hydration status and renal function (using available formulae). Within each drug class, it is sensible to use agents which are less likely to be influenced by renal clearance. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data of anticancer agents in the elderly are needed in order to maximise efficacy whilst avoiding unacceptable toxicity.
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Cole PD, Drachtman RA, Smith AK, Cate S, Larson RA, Hawkins DS, Holcenberg J, Kelly K, Kamen BA. Phase II trial of oral aminopterin for adults and children with refractory acute leukemia. Clin Cancer Res 2005; 11:8089-96. [PMID: 16299240 PMCID: PMC2906753 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-05-0355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the antileukemic activity of weekly oral aminopterin in patients with refractory acute leukemia; to describe the pharmacodynamic properties of aminopterin; and to contrast the intracellular metabolism of aminopterin and methotrexate by patients' blasts in vitro. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Forty-six patients were enrolled in three strata: children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), adults with ALL, and patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Aminopterin was given weekly, in two doses of 2 mg/m(2), 12 hours apart. Limited sampling pharmacokinetic analysis was done during the first week of therapy. Accumulation of [(3)H]aminopterin and [(3)H]methotrexate by leukemic blasts was studied in vitro. RESULTS Six of 22 children with ALL (27%; 95% confidence interval, 8-47%) had clinically significant responses. None of those with AML and only two of 11 adults with ALL had responses meeting protocol definitions, although peripheral blast counts tended to decrease with therapy in all groups. Mucosal toxicity was minimal, even with limited use of leucovorin rescue. Complete bioavailability of aminopterin was confirmed, with a mean area under the curve of 0.52 +/- 0.03 micromol hour/L after oral dosing. No relationship between aminopterin pharmacokinetics and response was seen. In vitro, aminopterin showed more consistent metabolism by leukemic blasts to polyglutamates than methotrexate. Lineage-specific differences in the pattern of intracellular antifolylpolyglutamates were observed. CONCLUSIONS Weekly oral aminopterin has significant activity among children with refractory ALL. With greater cellular accumulation and metabolism, more reliable bioavailability than methotrexate, and tolerable toxicity at this dose and schedule, aminopterin deserves further study as a potent alternative to methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Cole
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, The Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA.
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Stephens MC, Baldassano RN, York A, Widemann B, Pitney AC, Jayaprakash N, Adamson PC. The bioavailability of oral methotrexate in children with inflammatory bowel disease. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2005; 40:445-9. [PMID: 15795592 DOI: 10.1097/01.mpg.0000157588.27125.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Methotrexate is used to treat patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Although no available pharmacologic data support the assumption that the bioavailability of methotrexate is diminished in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, most such patients receive methotrexate parenterally. METHODS The oral bioavailability of methotrexate was determined in 11 pediatric patients being treated with methotrexate for inflammatory bowel disease. Serial plasma methotrexate concentrations were determined after equal subcutaneous and oral doses of methotrexate. RESULTS The mean bioavailability of methotrexate in patients with inflammatory bowel disease was 84% +/- 38%. Interpatient variability in drug exposure was similar after oral and subcutaneous administration. CONCLUSIONS The bioavailability of methotrexate in patients with inflammatory bowel disease is no different from that observed in other disease states. Subcutaneous administration of methotrexate does not appear to decrease the interpatient variability in drug exposure. There is no sound pharmacologic basis for favoring administration of methotrexate via the subcutaneous route for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Stephens
- Center for Pediatric IBD, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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31
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Lipscomb GH, Meyer NL, Flynn DE, Peterson M, Ling FW. Oral methotrexate for treatment of ectopic pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002; 186:1192-5. [PMID: 12066097 DOI: 10.1067/mob.2002.123825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate oral methotrexate tablets in the treatment of ectopic pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN Patients with a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy were offered oral methotrexate tablets rather that intramuscular injection. Oral methotrexate was given in 2 divided doses 2 hours apart at a dose of 60 mg/m(2) with standard 2.5 mg methotrexate tablets. Patients were followed up with the use of the same protocol that was used typically for intramuscular methotrexate. RESULTS Nineteen of 22 patients (86%) were successfully treated. There was no statistical difference between patients who were treated successfully or unsuccessfully, with respect to initial human chorionic gonadotropin titers (P =.55), ectopic size (P =.77), or methotrexate dose (P =.18). Nineteen of 22 patients (86%) had increased pain during treatment. Outside of pain, gastrointestinal side effects were the most common. Thirty-two percent of patients required more than one treatment cycle. CONCLUSION Oral methotrexate can be used to treat ectopic pregnancy successfully, but there are few advantages to recommend its use over intramuscular methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary H Lipscomb
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
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Egan LJ, Sandborn WJ, Mays DC, Tremaine WJ, Fauq AH, Lipsky JJ. Systemic and intestinal pharmacokinetics of methotrexate in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1999; 65:29-39. [PMID: 9951428 DOI: 10.1016/s0009-9236(99)70119-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pharmacokinetics of low-dose subcutaneous methotrexate have not been determined throughout the standard weekly dosing interval. It is not known whether methotrexate concentrations in the gastrointestinal tract are sufficient for pharmacologic activity in inflammatory bowel disease. METHODS Ten patients with inflammatory bowel disease participated in the study. After the patients started taking 15 or 25 mg subcutaneous methotrexate once a week, erythrocyte methotrexate concentration was measured every 2 weeks. The absorption, rectal distribution, metabolism, and elimination of methotrexate were measured. The effect of methotrexate on proliferation of an intestinal epithelial cell line was determined. RESULTS After weekly subcutaneous administration of methotrexate was begun, trough erythrocyte concentration rose to reach a plateau after 6 to 8 weeks, ranging from 150 to 300 nmol/L. More than 90% of subcutaneously administered methotrexate was rapidly excreted in the urine. The methotrexate plasma time course after subcutaneous administration fit a 2-compartment first-order model with biphasic elimination and trough concentration of about 1 nmol/L. Trough and peak methotrexate concentrations (mean value +/- SD) were 64 +/- 33 and 206 +/- 64 fmol/mg in the rectal mucosa and 4 +/- 3 and 51 +/- 26 nmol/L in the rectal lumen. These methotrexate concentrations were in the range found to be pharmacologically active against Caco-2 cell growth, that is, a 50% inhibitory concentration from 10 to 46 nmol/L. CONCLUSION Subcutaneous methotrexate was well absorbed and distributed to the site of the lesions in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Methotrexate was concentrated intracellularly in blood and in the rectum. The methotrexate concentration in the rectal mucosa remained within a pharmacologically active range throughout the dosing interval. The findings represent a pharmacologic explanation for the sustained efficacy of weekly methotrexate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Egan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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33
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Ahmed SF, Wallace WH, Crofton PM, Wardhaugh B, Magowan R, Kelnar CJ. Short-term changes in lower leg length in children treated for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 1999; 12:75-80. [PMID: 10392351 DOI: 10.1515/jpem.1999.12.1.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The lower leg length velocity (LLLV) of 14 children with a median age of 4.5 yr who were undergoing chemotherapy (CT) for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) was studied for a median duration of 56 weeks (range 14-112). Nine children were studied over the first 6 months, six over the first year, four over the full 2-year course and nine children over the 3 months before and after the end of CT. Over the first month of CT, during induction, median LLLV was 0 mm/wk (P5, P95: -1.6, 0.11); during the fourth month of CT, at the end of CNS-directed therapy, there was a significant rise to 0.38 mm/wk (P5, P95: -0.04, 0.81; p = 0.01, WSR). In the children measured following the end of CT, median LLLV rose from 0.46 mm/wk (P5, P95: -0.02, 0.79) in month 23 to 0.84 mm/wk (P5, P95: 0.72, 1.12) (p = 0.03). There was a positive relationship between neutrophil count and LLLV during continuation chemotherapy (r = 0.4, p = 0.0002); median LLLV was 0.2 mm/ wk (P5, P95: -0.15, 0.5) when the neutrophil count was less than 1 x 10(9)/l and 0.65 mm/wk (P5, P95: 0.1, 1.0) (p = 0.01) when the count was above 1 x 10(9)/l. No significant differences in LLLV were observed between children randomised to different UKALLXI regimens. Intensive chemotherapy for ALL adversely affects lower leg growth. Growth was subnormal during the first few weeks of chemotherapy, but was comparable to healthy children during CNS directed and continuation therapy. There was a significant relationship between growth velocity and neutrophil count during continuation chemotherapy. On discontinuation of chemotherapy there was a further acceleration in lower leg length velocity to supranormal levels ("catch-up" growth).
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Affiliation(s)
- S F Ahmed
- Department of Child Life & Health, University of Edinburgh, UK
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Singsen BH, Goldbach-Mansky R. Methotrexate in the treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and other pediatric rheumatoid and nonrheumatic disorders. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 1997; 23:811-40. [PMID: 9361157 DOI: 10.1016/s0889-857x(05)70362-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The goal of treatment for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) and other pediatric rheumatic disorders is to minimize joint destruction, pain, and deformity and to maximize all aspects of growth and development. Oral and injectable methotrexate are now often given early in the treatment of JRA, childhood dermatomyositis, difficult-to-control arthritis in the pediatric spondyloarthropathies, SLE, sarcoidosis, several of the vasculopathies, and idiopathic iritis. Weekly low-dose MTX has become a mainstay of long-term improved control of these disorders, and is associated with strikingly few documented long-term side effects. Dosages, pharmacology, side effects, efficacy, and treatment strategies are discussed. Although formal studies are lacking, MTX for the pediatric rheumatic disorders seems to be associated with less frequent physician visits, lower total costs, improved function, and fewer late reconstructive surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- B H Singsen
- Department of Immunologic and Rheumatic Diseases, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio, USA
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35
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Matherly LH, Taub JW. Methotrexate pharmacology and resistance in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Leuk Lymphoma 1996; 21:359-68. [PMID: 9172800 DOI: 10.3109/10428199609093433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Impressive gains have been made in the therapy of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in recent years such that remissions today are commonly achieved in up to 95% of patients and long term disease-free survival rates approach 70%. Methotrexate is a key component in ALL consolidation and maintenance therapies and is administered intrathecally in the prophylaxis and treatment of central nervous system leukemia. Critical determinants of methotrexate sensitivity and resistance (dihydrofolate reductase levels, methotrexate membrane transport, methotrexate polyglutamylation) previously described in cultured cells have recently been identified in lymphoblasts from children with ALL. Heterogenous expressions of increased dihydrofolate reductase or impaired methotrexate transport can be detected in both diagnostic and relapsed ALL specimens by flow cytometry with fluorescent methotrexate analogues. Lymphoblasts from children with ALL synthesize long chain polyglutamates and correlations have been established between the accumulation of methotrexate polyglutamates in ALL blasts and characteristic patient prognostic features. Variations in methotrexate polyglutamate accumulation may reflect changes in polyglutamate synthetic or degradative enzymes, or may be secondary to changes in methotrexate influx or dihydrofolate reductase levels. Other critical elements in treatment response to methotrexate include the dose and route of methotrexate administration, its catabolism to 7-hydroxymethotrexate, and the rate of methotrexate plasma clearance. A unique relationship exists between chromosome 21 and ALL leukemogenesis, and response to treatment including methotrexate. A better understanding of the molecular bases of methotrexate response and the development of methotrexate resistance in childhood ALL should facilitate further improvements in the effectiveness of methotrexate-based chemotherapy for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- L H Matherly
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
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36
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Egan LJ, Sandborn WJ. Methotrexate for inflammatory bowel disease: pharmacology and preliminary results. Mayo Clin Proc 1996; 71:69-80. [PMID: 8538238 DOI: 10.4065/71.1.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the limited published experience with methotrexate treatment for inflammatory bowel disease, to examine the proposed anti-inflammatory and immune-modifying mechanism of action and pharmacologic properties of methotrexate, and to detail its limiting toxicities. DESIGN A comprehensive synopsis of methotrexate is presented to aid physicians who treat patients with inflammatory bowel disease. RESULTS Methotrexate and its polyglutamate metabolites are folic acid analogues with inhibitory activity against many enzymes in the metabolic pathway of folic acid. Long-term low-dose methotrexate therapy (25 mg or less once a week) inhibits production of thymidylate, purines, and methionine and leads to accumulation of adenosine, a potent anti-inflammatory substance. These actions inhibit cellular proliferation, decrease formation of antibodies, and decrease production of mediators of inflammation such as interleukins and eicosanoids. Three uncontrolled trials and two controlled trials have demonstrated efficacy of low-dose methotrexate therapy for induction of remission in Crohn's disease and have also suggested possible benefit for ulcerative colitis and for remission maintenance indications in both diseases. Although methotrexate is generally well tolerated for long-term use at a low dose, several serious toxicities potentially limit its use. CONCLUSION Methotrexate is a promising new agent for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Egan
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic, Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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37
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Masson E, Relling MV, Synold TW, Liu Q, Schuetz JD, Sandlund JT, Pui CH, Evans WE. Accumulation of methotrexate polyglutamates in lymphoblasts is a determinant of antileukemic effects in vivo. A rationale for high-dose methotrexate. J Clin Invest 1996; 97:73-80. [PMID: 8550853 PMCID: PMC507064 DOI: 10.1172/jci118409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is one of the most widely used drugs for the treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and is commonly given in high doses. However, the rationale for high-dose MTX (HDMTX) has been challenged recently. To determine whether higher MTX polyglutamate (MTXPG) concentrations in ALL blasts translate into greater antileukemic effects, 150 children with newly diagnosed ALL were randomized to initial treatment with either HDMTX (1,000 mg/m2 intravenously over 24 h) or lower-dose MTX (30 mg/m2 by mouth every 6 h x 6). ALL blasts accumulated higher concentrations of MTXPG and long-chain MTXPG (MTXPGLC) after HDMTX (P < 0.00001). Of 101 patients evaluable for peripheral blast cytoreduction, MTXPG concentrations were higher in patients whose blast count decreased within 24 h (P = 0.005) and in those who had no detectable circulating blasts within 4 days (P = 0.004). The extent of inhibition of de novo purine synthesis in ALL blasts was significantly related to the blast concentration of MTXPGLC (IC95% = 483 pmol/10(9) blasts). The percentage of patients with 44-h MTXPGLC exceeding the IC95% was greater after HDMTX (81%) than LDMTX (46%, P < 0.0001). These data indicate that higher blast concentrations of MTXPG are associated with greater antileukemic effects, establishing a strong rationale for HD-MTX in the treatment of childhood ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Masson
- Pharmaceutical Department, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, USA
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38
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Synold TW, Relling MV, Boyett JM, Rivera GK, Sandlund JT, Mahmoud H, Crist WM, Pui CH, Evans WE. Blast cell methotrexate-polyglutamate accumulation in vivo differs by lineage, ploidy, and methotrexate dose in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. J Clin Invest 1994; 94:1996-2001. [PMID: 7525652 PMCID: PMC294625 DOI: 10.1172/jci117552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
High-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) is a component of most treatment protocols for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), yet recent studies of receptor-mediated transport and saturable polyglutamylation have questioned its rationale. To investigate this in vivo, methotrexate and its active polyglutamated metabolites (MTX-PG) were measured in bone marrow blasts obtained from 101 children randomized to single-agent therapy with either HDMTX (1 g/m2 per 24 h i.v., n = 47) or low-dose MTX (LDMTX, 30 mg/m2 by mouth every 6 h x 6, n = 54), before remission induction therapy. Blast concentrations of total MTX-PGs (median 460 vs 1380 pmol/10(9) cells) and of long-chain MTX-glu4-6 were both significantly higher after HDMTX (P < 0.001). With either treatment, MTX-PGs were significantly higher in B-lineage blasts than in T-lineage blasts (LDMTX P = 0.001, HDMTX P = 0.03). In a multiple regression analysis of B-lineage ALL, blast MTX-PG was significantly related to MTX dose (or plasma MTX concentration), lymphoblast ploidy (hyperdiploid > nonhyperdiploid), and percentage S-phase. This is the first evidence that HDMTX achieves higher MTX-PG concentrations in ALL blasts in vivo, establishing a rationale for HDMTX in the treatment of childhood ALL, especially T-lineage or nonhyperdiploid B-lineage ALL, disease characteristics associated with a poor prognosis on conventional therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Synold
- Hematology-Oncology, Department, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
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39
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Pui
- Department of Hematology-Oncology and Pathology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105
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40
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Bonetti A, Chatelut E, Kim S. An extended-release formulation of methotrexate for subcutaneous administration. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 1994; 33:303-6. [PMID: 8281623 DOI: 10.1007/bf00685904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Methotrexate is a cell-cycle phase-specific antimetabolite that requires prolonged exposure for optimal efficacy. However, the in vivo half-life is short, and repeated administrations are required for optimal efficacy. Methotrexate was encapsulated into a lipid-based drug-delivery system to create an extended-release formulation (Depo/methotrexate) for subcutaneous administration. Pharmacokinetics and efficacy studies were done in BDF1 mice. Depo/methotrexate increased the methotrexate plasma half-life by a factor of 190, from 0.53 to 100 h. Plasma peak levels of the encapsulated drug were 120-fold lower than those of unencapsulated methotrexate, whereas the AUCs (areas under the concentration-time curve) were similar. As a consequence of the extended drug release, the single-dose potency of methotrexate against the L1210 leukemia model was increased by a factor of about 130 without producing significant changes in the therapeutic index. In conclusion, Depo/methotrexate appears to have potential usefulness as an extended-release formulation of methotrexate.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bonetti
- UCSD Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla 92093-0812
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41
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Skoglund KA, Söderhäll S, Beck O, Peterson C, Wennberg M, Hayder S, Björk O. Plasma and urine levels of methotrexate and 7-hydroxymethotrexate in children with ALL during maintenance therapy with weekly oral methotrexate. MEDICAL AND PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY 1994; 22:187-93. [PMID: 8272008 DOI: 10.1002/mpo.2950220307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
A new high-performance liquid chromatographic assay was used to determine methotrexate (MTX) and its main metabolite, 7-hydroxymethotrexate (7-OH-MTX), in the plasma (n = 17) and urine (n = 14) of children (age 3-12 years) on maintenance therapy for acute lymphocytic leukemia (n = 14) or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (n = 3). Each child received oral doses of weekly MTX (4.0-29 mg/m2) and daily 6-mercaptopurine (40-111 mg/m2). Plasma samples were collected daily from two children during the 1-week dose interval. A limited sampling strategy was designed, whereby 2 days of blood sampling were used in the other 15 patients. Morning urine samples were collected daily for 1 week following MTX intake from 14 of the children. MTX was detectable in all plasma and urine samples for the entire dose interval. The main metabolite, 7-OH-MTX, could be detected in plasma and urine from all patients on the first day after dose intake but only in a few patients during the whole dose interval. Interpatient variability of MTX and 7-OH-MTX levels was high at all points during the week. Significant correlation were found between the urinary MTX levels on days 2 and 7 and plasma MTX levels on day 2 after intake. No significant correlation was found between drug levels in plasma or urine and liver function tests in the children showing signs of mild liver injury. This assay provides a tool for further studies on the role of pharmacokinetics for the clinical effects of weekly oral low-dose MTX given alone or in combination with 6-mercaptopurine.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Skoglund
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Teresi ME, Riggs CE, Webster PM, Adams MJ, Noonan PK, O'Donnell JP. Bioequivalence of two methotrexate formulations in psoriatic and cancer patients. Ann Pharmacother 1993; 27:1434-8. [PMID: 8305770 DOI: 10.1177/106002809302701202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the bioequivalence of a generic methotrexate (MTX) tablet (Mylan) with that of a brand-name (Lederle) product. DESIGN A single-dose, randomized, crossover study. SETTING Clinical Research Center (CRC) at a university hospital. PATIENTS Men and women who had a diagnosis of malignancy or psoriasis who were at least 21 years old. METHODOLOGY Two overnight study periods were scheduled at the CRC at least one week, but not more than two weeks apart. Each period consisted of a 10-hour fast prior to and 4 hours following oral MTX 15 mg administered as six 2.5-mg tablets. Blood samples were collected over 48 hours. Plasma MTX concentrations were determined using an HPLC assay. Area under the curve from zero to infinity (AUC0-infinity) was calculated by the log-trapezoidal method. RESULTS Twenty-two patients (21 psoriasis, 1 colon cancer) aged 23-61 years completed both study periods. Mean values for peak concentration, time to peak concentration, and AUC0-infinity were 0.80 mumol/L, 1.2 hours, and 3.0 mumol.h/L, respectively, for Mylan's MTX tablets and 0.81 mumol/L, 1.4 hours, 3.0 mumol.h/L, respectively, for Lederle's MTX. Normalization for weight or body surface area did not affect interpatient variability. Relative bioavailability of generic MTX was 99.2 percent. Rate and extent of absorption were not significantly different and the confidence intervals were within the range of 80-120 percent required by the Food and Drug Administration. CONCLUSIONS Mylan's MTX tablet is bioequivalent to Lederle's product.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Teresi
- Division of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City 52242
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43
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Seideman P, Beck O, Eksborg S, Wennberg M. The pharmacokinetics of methotrexate and its 7-hydroxy metabolite in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1993; 35:409-12. [PMID: 8485020 PMCID: PMC1381552 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.1993.tb04158.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
1. The pharmacokinetics of MTX and its 7-hydroxy metabolite (7-OHMTX) were investigated in nine patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Each patient received 15 mg MTX i.v., i.m. and p.o. after an overnight fast in a randomized cross-over design. The plasma concentrations of MTX and 7-OHMTX were measured over 7 days and their urinary excretion over 24 h. 2. Plasma concentrations of MTX were described by a triexponential function after i.v. administration, a triexponential function with zero or first order absorption after oral administration, and a biexponential function with zero of first order absorption after i.m. injection. Plasma concentrations of 7-OHMTX were described by a biexponential function after all three routes of administration. The median terminal elimination half-lives of MTX and 7-OHMTX were 55 h and 116 h, respectively. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC (0,170 h)) of MTX did not differ between i.m. and oral administration indicating similar bioavailability after these routes of administration. The AUC (0,170 h) values of 7-OHMTX after i.v., oral and i.m. administration were similar. Over 80% of MTX was excreted in urine as intact drug and about 3% was excreted as 7-OHMTX during 24 h after drug administration. 3. Plasma concentrations of MTX and 7-OHMTX were measurable at the end of the dose interval in most of the patients and may help to identify non-responders or patients with increased risk of side-effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Seideman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Danderyd Hospital, Sweden
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44
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Current Status of the Medical Treatment of Children with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 1991. [DOI: 10.1016/s0889-857x(21)00133-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Songsiridej N, Furst DE. Methotrexate--the rapidly acting drug. BAILLIERE'S CLINICAL RHEUMATOLOGY 1990; 4:575-93. [PMID: 2093441 DOI: 10.1016/s0950-3579(05)80008-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Borsi JD, Sagen E, Romslo I, Moe PJ. Pharmacokinetics and metabolism of methotrexate: an example for the use of clinical pharmacology in pediatric oncology. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 1990; 7:13-33. [PMID: 2204406 DOI: 10.3109/08880019009034317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J D Borsi
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Chemistry, University of Trondheim, Norway
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Brooks PJ, Spruill WJ, Parish RC, Birchmore DA. Pharmacokinetics of methotrexate administered by intramuscular and subcutaneous injections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. ARTHRITIS AND RHEUMATISM 1990; 33:91-4. [PMID: 2302272 DOI: 10.1002/art.1780330112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The serum concentrations and the pharmacokinetics of low-dose methotrexate (MTX) were compared after both intramuscular (IM) and subcutaneous (SQ) injections in 5 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Values for the observed peak concentration, the time to the observed peak concentration, and the area under the time versus concentration curve for IM injections were not significantly different from these values for SQ injections. These results suggest that IM and SQ are interchangeable routes of administration. SQ administration may be a more convenient and less painful way of administering low-dose MTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Brooks
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Athens
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Evans WE, Petros WP, Relling MV, Crom WR, Madden T, Rodman JH, Sunderland M. Clinical pharmacology of cancer chemotherapy in children. Pediatr Clin North Am 1989; 36:1199-230. [PMID: 2677939 DOI: 10.1016/s0031-3955(16)36765-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The pharmacokinetics of most anticancer drugs are highly variable in children, and are commonly different when children are compared to adults. Several recent studies have demonstrated that variability in systemic exposure due to interpatient pharmacokinetic variability, may be related to the probability of oncolytic effects or toxicity for some anticancer drugs. This review has exemplified differences in the clinical pharmacology of several anticancer drugs, when children are compared to adults. Such age-related differences in the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of these drugs, together with biologic differences between pediatric and adult cancers, provide the rationale for systematically conducting pediatric phase I through IV studies of anticancer drugs and denote the risks of relying on adult trials to identify new therapeutic strategies for childhood cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- W E Evans
- Pharmaceutical Division, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
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49
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Kinetics of the formation and isomerization of methotrexate complexes of recombinant human dihydrofolate reductase. J Biol Chem 1988. [DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9258(19)81516-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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