Methotrexate and alcohol - are they compatible?

introduction

The active ingredient methotrexate is a drug that inhibits the formation of DNA. Methotrexate mainly inhibits the multiplication of rapidly dividing cells. It is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis (Psoriasis vulgaris) and also used in high doses to treat tumors.
In order for the methotrexate to develop its effect, however, it must be given continuously over several weeks. Methotrexate is given either as a tablet or via a syringe during therapy.
After administration, the drug is broken down by the liver and then excreted from the body by the kidneys.

Methotrexate and alcohol interactions

Since methotrexate is a dangerous drug, it can be harmful if not handled properly. Therefore, caution should be exercised while taking it. Because in addition to the undesirable effects of methotrexate, it can also lead to kidney and liver damage.

Since the ingested alcohol, like methotrexate, is metabolized and broken down by the liver, there may be interactions between the consumption of alcohol and methotrexate. An increase in liver values ​​and the development of liver damage are therefore more likely with a combination of methotrexate and alcohol than with not consuming alcohol.

The risk of developing liver cirrhosis is also increased by regular alcohol consumption during therapy. Furthermore, the combination of alcohol and methotrexate is more likely to damage the liver for patients who already have liver damage or who have diabetes mellitus (Diabetes) Suffer.

It is therefore advisable to completely abstain from alcohol during methotrexate therapy. For these reasons, methotrexate is also contraindicated in patients with alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence and must not be given.

Methotrexate and alcohol - what to look for?

So far it is recommended to use alcohol during therapy Methotrexate to waive completely, but the combination with alcohol is not prohibited. Also a moderate consumption of alcohol is not recommendedbecause it cannot be said with certainty when it becomes serious Side effectshow liver damage can occur during therapy with alcohol combination.

Nevertheless, it must be under a long-term therapy, such as with rheumatism, alcohol cannot be completely avoided with methotrexate. There should be a few Pay attention to details be: Usually the methotrexate once a week given.
Most of the methotrexate administered is consumed during the first two days after the administration liver dismantled and over the kidney eliminated. Hence, it makes sense and is advisable up to 48 hours after methotrexate administration completely refrain from consuming alcohol. This can reduce the risk of liver damage.
From the third day until the next dose of methotrexate small amounts of alcohol to be drunk. However, you should still pay attention to a low alcohol consumption. However, this should be done with the treated doctor to be discussed!

Other side effects

Taking Methotrexate can it to one high increase in liver values come, creating a risk for severe liver damage consists. Therefore, the liver values ​​(GPT, GOT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin) regularly during therapy with methotrexate Blood draws to be controlled. Furthermore, the additional gift of Folic acid recommended during therapy as this is a Increase in liver enzymes can counteract.

Because of the severe liver damage, other liver-damaging substances or drugs should be avoided during therapy with methotrexate, as the risk of liver damage occurring increases significantly. That also includes alcoholwho is about the liver is broken down and therefore puts additional strain on the liver. Severe liver damage or Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis) is only one rare side effect.
Increased liver values ​​are more common during therapy Fatty liver or the Cirrhosis of the liver.
With liver cirrhosis it comes to Transformation of the liver tissue in connective tissuewhich cannot take over the tasks of the liver cells.

In addition to liver damage, it can also lead to a whole host of others Side effects come, like for example nausea, Vomit or diarrhea. Furthermore, it can also be easier too Infections come. Damage to the kidneys could also be observed, since the methotrexate is excreted via the kidneys.