Methotrexate is a potent medication typically prescribed for inflammatory diseases such as severe psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, it is known to have serious side-effects, including liver and kidney damage, hair loss, low white blood cell count and mouth sores. But one of the most frequent questions asked by patients on methotrexate treatment is how to combine it with the consumption of coffee.
The first thing that needs to be taken into account is that caffeine is known to interfere with methotrexate. No daily dose should exceed 150 mg, which is the total caffeine intake in about one cup of coffee, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Avoiding other sources of caffeine such as sodas, energy drinks, chocolates and supplements that contain caffeine should be a priority.
Furthermore, people on methotrexate should be careful about coffee intake since caffeine can affect its absorption and reduce its effectiveness. Studies have shown that coffee can increase the speed at which methotrexate is processed by the liver, which leads to its early elimination from the body.
Although it is not recommended, research suggests that at most, two cups of coffee can be consumed as long as they are spaced out during the day. The same study also suggests that coffee should be avoided on the days when methotrexate is taken. As a small amount of methotrexate remains in the body for up to four hours after ingestion, the National Health Institute recommends that coffee should be consumed at least four after taking the medicine.
In addition, methotrexate can cause dehydration, which can be further exacerbated by the diuretic effects of caffeine present in coffee. So, when drinking coffee on methotrexate, it is important to remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. The recommended daily intake of water is 8 to 10 cups per day, but patients on methotrexate may need even more. Right hydration ensures that the body is able to eliminate the medicine in a more effective manner.
It is known that methotrexate can reduce inflammation and can be used to treat severe forms of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, there are some risks associated with its use and patients should be aware of these before they start treatment. Although drinking coffee with methotrexate is possible if the dosage is appropriately adjusted, it is best to talk to a doctor first before proceeding to do so.
Foods to Avoid
Apart from reducing caffeine intake, there are some other foods that should be avoided by people on methotrexate. Any food or drink that contains alcohol should be avoided because it can increase the side effects associated with the drug. Other things to avoid include some types of vegetables such as eggplants and tomatoes, as they can interfere with its efficacy. In addition, people on methotrexate should also avoid taking supplements like Vitamin C and Frelemine, as they can make the drug less effective.
Foods that are rich in folate and Vitamin B12 should be increased in the diet. This is because methotrexate can lead to a decrease in levels of these vitamins. Therefore, whole grains, dairy, leafy greens and other foods that are rich in folate and Vitamin B12 should be consumed regularly while taking methotrexate.
Possible Side Effects
It is not advisable to take methotrexate without close monitoring by a doctor. Blood tests are necessary for people taking this medication to check for any damage to the liver, kidneys or other organs. A complete physical examination is usually done before the start of treatment and regularly done after that.
Since it is an immunosuppressant, people on methotrexate have an increased risk of infections. Therefore, it is important to be aware of any fever and other signs of infection. In addition, people on methotrexate should also check for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rashes, hives, itching or swelling.
Dosage Adjustments
The dosage of methotrexate depends on the condition being treated and the severity of the symptoms. It is important to adjust the dosage according to the response of the patient and consult a doctor if any side effects occur. The doctor might need to reduce the dosage or add other medications if any serious or life-threatening side effects occur.
For instance, people taking methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis usually start with a low dose and increase it depending on the response. If no response is noticed, the doctor might suggest switching to another medication or adding other medications.
Other Medications
Methotrexate can be taken in combination with other medications. It is important to consult a doctor in such cases, as some drugs might interact with it and increase the risk of side effects. For instance, taking aspirin with methotrexate can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Therefore, it is recommended to seek medical advice before taking any medications with methotrexate.
It should also be noted that methotrexate can interact with other substances such as herbal medicines, nutritional supplements and vitamins. Therefore, any such food or item should be discussed with the doctor.
Monitoring by Doctor
Consulting a doctor and having regular blood tests is essential for people on methotrexate. This ensures that any changes in the body or any side effects are noticed in time. If any side effects are noticed, the doctor might need to adjust the dose or switch to a different medication.
Methotrexate is a powerful medication and can have serious side effects. Therefore, it is important to follow all doctor’s instructions and be aware of the possible risks. It is also important to keep track of any changes in body caused by methotrexate and report them to the doctor.
Nutrition
It is important to maintain a balanced diet while taking methotrexate. This includes including foods rich in folate, Vitamin B12 and other essential nutrients. Eating foods rich in antioxidants can also reduce the risk of side effects. People on methotrexate should reduce their intake of fatty and processed foods and focus on consuming healthy and nutritious items.
It is also important to be mindful of the foods that interact with the drug and should be avoided. Eating the right foods and drinking plenty of water helps the body process the drug and eliminates it from the body in a more efficient manner.
Support Group
It is important to take the right care when taking methotrexate and to seek help if needed. Support groups can provide valuable information and support to people on methotrexate treatment. These websites and forums can provide valuable information about the drug and its possible side effects, as well as coping strategies.
Talking to other people who are going through the same experience can be very helpful. These groups can provide valuable resources and advice on how to cope with the side effects and reduce the risk of complications. They can also provide emotional support and understanding that can help people stay strong and cope with the effects of the medication.
