Introduction
The active ingredient methotrexate is a drug that inhibits the formation of DNA. In particular, methotrexate inhibits the proliferation of rapidly dividing cells. It is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis vulgaris and, in high doses, for the treatment of tumors.
In order for methotrexate to be effective, however, it must be given continuously over several weeks. Methotrexate is administered during therapy either as a tablet or by injection. After administration, the drug is broken down by the liver and then excreted from the body through the kidneys.
Since Methotrexate is a dangerous drug, it can be harmful if not handled properly. Therefore, caution is advised while taking it. In addition to the undesirable effects of methotrexate, it can also lead to kidney and liver damage.
Since the alcohol and methotrexate are both metabolized and broken down by the liver, there may be interactions when taking alcohol and methotrexate. The increase in liver values and the development of liver damage are therefore more likely to occur when methotrexate and alcohol are combined than when alcohol is not consumed. The risk of developing cirrhosis of the liver is also increased by regular consumption of alcohol during therapy.
Furthermore, liver damage is more likely to occur when alcohol and methotrexate are combined for patients who already have liver damage or who suffer from diabetes mellitus. Therefore, it is recommended that patients on methotrexate therapy completely avoid alcohol. For these reasons, methotrexate is also contraindicated in patients with alcohol abuse and alcohol dependency and should not be given.
Until now, it has been recommended to completely avoid alcohol during therapy with methotrexate, but the combination with alcohol is not prohibited. Moderate consumption of alcohol is not recommended either, as it cannot be said with certainty when serious side effects, such as liver damage, may occur under therapy with alcohol combination. Nevertheless, alcohol does not have to be completely avoided under a long-term therapy, such as rheumatism, with methotrexate.
However, a few details should be considered: In most cases, methotrexate is given once a week. Most of the methotrexate administered is broken down by the liver and excreted via the kidneys in the first two days after administration. It is therefore sensible and advisable to completely avoid alcohol up to 48 hours after methotrexate administration.
This can reduce the risk of liver damage. From the third day until the next administration of methotrexate, small amounts of alcohol can be drunk. However, care should still be taken to keep the consumption of alcohol to a minimum. This procedure should, however, be discussed in advance with the doctor who is treating you!
