Methotrexate Effectively Controls Ocular Inflammation in Japanese Patients With Non-Infectious Uveitis

The study evaluated methotrexate (MTX) in 35 Japanese patients with non-infectious uveitis and found it effective in controlling ocular inflammation and reducing corticosteroid dependency. At 12 months, 88.9% of patients no longer required systemic corticosteroids, and the mean dose significantly decreased from 12.1 mg/day. Visual acuity improved, and 90% of eyes had inactive uveitis at 24 months. The mean relapse rate score dropped significantly, though treatment failure occurred in 37.1% of patients. Adverse effects were reported in 34.3% of patients, with 11.4% discontinuing due to these effects. The study suggests MTX doses similar to those for rheumatoid arthritis are effective but require careful monitoring due to adverse effects.