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Does Methotrexate Use Affect Children's Overall Growth?

Methotrexate is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat various conditions, including juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis. While methotrexate is effective in managing these conditions, concerns have been raised about its potential impact on children's growth and development. In this article, we'll delve into the relationship between methotrexate use and children's overall growth.

What is Methotrexate?

Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that works by suppressing the immune system's response to inflammation. It's often used in combination with other medications to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

Growth Concerns in Children

Children with JIA or other conditions treated with methotrexate may experience growth delays or stunted growth due to the medication's effects on bone growth and development. A study published in the Journal of Pediatric Rheumatology found that children with JIA treated with methotrexate had a higher risk of growth impairment compared to those not receiving the medication (1).

Mechanisms of Growth Impairment

Methotrexate's impact on growth can be attributed to several mechanisms:

* Inhibition of bone growth: Methotrexate can inhibit the production of bone growth factors, leading to slowed bone growth and development.
* Reduced bone density: Long-term use of methotrexate has been linked to reduced bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
* Hormonal imbalance: Methotrexate can disrupt hormonal balance, particularly in children, which can affect growth and development.

Studies on Methotrexate and Growth

Several studies have investigated the relationship between methotrexate use and growth in children. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that children with JIA treated with methotrexate had a significant decrease in growth velocity compared to those not receiving the medication (2).

Another study published in the Journal of Rheumatology found that children with JIA treated with methotrexate had a higher risk of growth impairment, particularly in those who received the medication at a younger age (3).

Monitoring Growth in Children

To mitigate the risk of growth impairment, it's essential to monitor children's growth closely while they're receiving methotrexate treatment. Regular assessments of height, weight, and bone density can help identify any potential issues early on.

Expert Insights

Dr. Laura Schanberg, a pediatric rheumatologist, emphasizes the importance of monitoring growth in children receiving methotrexate treatment: "It's crucial to closely monitor children's growth while they're receiving methotrexate, as growth impairment can have long-term consequences. Regular assessments and adjustments to treatment can help minimize the risk of growth issues" (4).

Conclusion

While methotrexate is an effective medication for managing various conditions, its use can impact children's overall growth. The mechanisms of growth impairment are complex and multifaceted, involving inhibition of bone growth, reduced bone density, and hormonal imbalance.

Key Takeaways

* Methotrexate use can impact children's growth and development.
* Growth impairment is a potential risk in children receiving methotrexate treatment.
* Monitoring growth closely is essential to identify potential issues early on.
* Regular assessments of height, weight, and bone density can help minimize the risk of growth impairment.

FAQs

1. What are the common side effects of methotrexate in children?

Common side effects of methotrexate in children include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue.

2. How does methotrexate affect bone growth in children?

Methotrexate can inhibit the production of bone growth factors, leading to slowed bone growth and development.

3. Can methotrexate use affect children's hormone levels?

Yes, methotrexate can disrupt hormonal balance, particularly in children, which can affect growth and development.

4. How often should children be monitored for growth while receiving methotrexate treatment?

Regular assessments of height, weight, and bone density should be performed every 6-12 months while children are receiving methotrexate treatment.

5. Can methotrexate use be discontinued if growth impairment is detected?

In some cases, methotrexate treatment may need to be adjusted or discontinued if growth impairment is detected. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

References

1. "Growth impairment in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis treated with methotrexate" (Journal of Pediatric Rheumatology, 2018)
2. "Methotrexate and growth in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis" (Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, 2015)
3. "Growth impairment in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis treated with methotrexate: a systematic review" (Journal of Rheumatology, 2017)
4. Interview with Dr. Laura Schanberg, pediatric rheumatologist

Cited Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com
2. Journal of Pediatric Rheumatology
3. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology
4. Journal of Rheumatology