Rheumatoid Arthritis

Methotrexate is considered as the standard drug treatment for Rheumatoid arthritis. The purpose of this study is to find out the incidence of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR), and possible risk factors in patients of rheumatoid arthritis administering methotrexate. And to determine the possibility of any new adverse drug reaction that is not well explored in previous studies. An observational follow up study designed and conducted using Naranjo scale to identify the adverse drug reactions in rheumatoid arthritis patients administering methotrexate in KIM’s Hospital.  The objective is to identify the dose dependent adverse drug reactions in rheumatoid arthritis patients and identify possible risk factors associated adverse drug reactions of methotrexate of methotrexate. Toxic effects may occur hours, to days to weeks after methotrexate administration and or overdose, the purpose of this study is to determine the relation between the dose and the occurrence of adverse drug reaction of methotrexate. During the study period clinically relevant adverse drug reaction have been presented by the patients taking methotrexate who attended hospital for their regular checkup. For example, the most commonly reported adverse drug reaction is abnormal taste for food and other less commonly presented adverse drug reaction include diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and alopecia. In female patient’s 20-49 age group reported adverse drug reaction like amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea. Methotrexate toxicity develops due to increased patient susceptibility during the treatment.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease where the immune system of the body which normally protects the body by fighting against infection and diseases instead targets the body. The immune system attacks the tissue that lines the joints causing pain, swelling and stiffness in the joint and affecting the ability to work properly. Early treatment to avoid permanent joint damage is the key for preventing disability and progression. The treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis combines many approaches with drug, exercise, change in lifestyle etc. It also includes alternative methods i.e with herbal medicines. Many plants and plant products have been proven and many are under scientific exploration to develop a novel therapeutic agent for Rheumatoid Arthritis.