Methotrexate is a medication used to treat cancer, autoimmune diseases, and other conditions. It is essential to adjust the dosage of methotrexate for seniors because of the changes in their body, including decreased kidney and liver function, and increased risk of toxicity.
According to DrugPatentWatch [1], the recommended dosage of methotrexate for seniors depends on the condition being treated, the patient's overall health, and the severity of the disease. The starting dose for seniors is usually lower than that for younger adults, and the dosage is gradually increased as needed.
The dosage of methotrexate needs to be carefully monitored in seniors because they are more susceptible to toxicity. According to UpToDate [2], high-dose methotrexate can cause severe side effects, including kidney and liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and mucositis. Seniors are at a higher risk of these side effects due to age-related changes in their organs' function.
To minimize the risk of toxicity, the dosage of methotrexate is adjusted based on the patient's creatinine clearance, which is a measure of kidney function. According to a study published in the Journal of Geriatric Oncology [3], the dosage of methotrexate should be reduced by 50% in seniors with a creatinine clearance of less than 60 ml/min. The study also recommends monitoring the patient's blood counts and liver function tests regularly to detect any signs of toxicity.
In conclusion, adjusting the dosage of methotrexate for seniors is crucial to avoid toxicity and ensure the medication's effectiveness. The dosage is based on the patient's overall health, the condition being treated, and the severity of the disease. Seniors are more susceptible to toxicity due to age-related changes in their organs' function, and the dosage needs to be carefully monitored based on the patient's creatinine clearance and regular blood tests.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/METHOTREXATE
[2] https://www.uptodate.com/contents/therapeutic-use-and-toxicity-of-high-dose-methotrexate
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5153332/