TLDR Methotrexate reduced the need for steroids in asthma patients without worsening their condition.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study involving 10 subjects with corticosteroid-requiring asthma found that low-dose methotrexate (MTX) significantly reduced the daily steroid requirement by 30% (from 11.97 mg/day to 8.37 mg/day of prednisone, p < 0.01) without altering clinical status. Symptom scores, peak flow rates, and spirometry remained unchanged between the MTX and placebo periods. Mild complications such as anorexia, alopecia, and stomatitis were observed but resolved with dose reduction or discontinuation of MTX. No subjects withdrew due to MTX complications.
November 2019 in “Harper's Textbook of Pediatric Dermatology” The document is a detailed medical reference on skin and genetic disorders.
44 citations,
August 2014 in “Anais brasileiros de dermatologia/Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Methotrexate is a promising and safe treatment for severe alopecia areata, with better results when combined with corticosteroids.
15 citations,
May 2017 in “JEADV. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology/Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology” High-dose corticosteroids and methotrexate had a modest effect on severe childhood alopecia, but side effects and relapse were concerns.
October 2023 in “Benha Journal of Applied Sciences” Methotrexate and vitamin D3 are potentially more effective and safer than triamcinolone for treating localized alopecia areata.
March 2022 in “Nepal Journal of Dermatology Venereology & Leprology” Methotrexate with steroids is slightly more effective than azathioprine with steroids for treating severe alopecia areata.
56 citations,
January 2021 in “Clinical and Experimental Medicine” The document concludes that while there are various treatments for Alopecia Areata, there is no cure, and individualized treatment plans are essential due to varying effectiveness.
