Infant Psoriasis

Another dangerous side effect of methotrexate treatment of psoriasis is an irritation of the liver that can eventually lead to liver damage. This has been reported in three to 10 per cent of patients using the drug over a long period.

At risk are those who receive a cumulative dose of more than 1.5 grams, the obese, diabetes, liver disease and abnormal kidney function, and excessive alcohol drinkers.

Depending on the dose they take and how it is administered, these individuals may suffer liver damage in a few years or 10-20 years. periodic liver biopsy therefore is necessary if methotrexate must be used for a long period.

The toxic effects of methotrexate may also be increased if taken with other medicines such as aspirin and sulfa drugs and anti-inflammatory or anti-arthritis. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking any other medicine during treatment with methotrexate.

Methotrexate also causes birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Do not try to conceive while taking this medication and avoid getting pregnant for at least eight weeks or three months after stopping treatment with methotrexate.

"Methotrexate can cause death to a developing fetus or severe congenital malformations in the fetus surviving. This medicine should not be taken by pregnant women. Women who may become pregnant and should take methotrexate should be sure to use effective contraception during treatment ", warned the doctors. Gilbert I. Simon and Harold M. Silverman in "The Book of pill.

"Methotrexate can also affect sperm. Men should not try to have a child during treatment with methotrexate or three months after treatment has been completed to prevent possible birth defects, "they added.

"Also, tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Methotrexate passes into breast milk and may cause side effects in infants," said Consumer Guide Prescription Drugs. "

Because of these dangers and others, some people may not be suitable for methotrexate therapy. These include people suffering from blood disorders, an active peptic ulcer disease, severe anemia, liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, and liver and kidney abnormalities. Other effective methods sure if less is recommended for these people. (Next: The vitamin D for psoriasis)

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