Longterm methotrexate use in rheumatoid arthritis: 12 year followup of 460 patients treated in community practice.

Abstract

MTX in RA is well tolerated over the longer term, with > 50% of patients starting MTX in a community based rheumatology private practice continuing to take it 12 years later. However, a substantial number of patients had 2nd line therapies added over this time. Monitoring for toxicity should continue throughout the course of therapy.