Which adverse reaction is associated with methotrexate?

Which adverse reaction is associated with methotrexate?

• A. Nausea
• B. Hypertension
• C. Immunosuppression
• D. Headache

Answer: (C)

The main concept tested is how methotrexate affects the immune system. Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, which reduces the availability of folate needed to make DNA. This slows the division of rapidly proliferating cells, especially in the bone marrow and among lymphocytes, leading to immunosuppression. Because the drug dampens immune cell production and function, patients become more susceptible to infections and may develop cytopenias. While nausea or headaches can occur with various drugs, they aren’t the hallmark adverse effect of methotrexate like immunosuppression is. Clinicians monitor blood counts and watch for infection signs due to this immunosuppressive impact.

The main concept tested is how methotrexate affects the immune system. Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, which reduces the availability of folate needed to make DNA. This slows the division of rapidly proliferating cells, especially in the bone marrow and among lymphocytes, leading to immunosuppression. Because the drug dampens immune cell production and function, patients become more susceptible to infections and may develop cytopenias. While nausea or headaches can occur with various drugs, they aren’t the hallmark adverse effect of methotrexate like immunosuppression is. Clinicians monitor blood counts and watch for infection signs due to this immunosuppressive impact.