Psychological side effects of MTX treatment in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a pilot study.

Abstract

This study showed that children with JIA who receive MTX treatment frequently develop psychological side effects, such as anticipatory nausea and behavioural distress in anticipation of treatment. This is true for patients selected for reported MTX side effects, as well as for randomly chosen JIA patients using MTX. As MTX is still the first choice in the treatment of severe JIA, more attention should be given to the treatment and prevention of side effects. Psychological intervention can be of help, but further studies are needed on the nature of the side effects, as well as on the prerequisites and efficacy of behavioural therapy.