Toxicity of low dose methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis.

The efficacy and acceptability of low dose weekly methotrexate therapy in rheumatoid arthritis was reviewed in 587 patients in open and randomized trials. Gastrointestinal toxicity was reported most frequently. Bone marrow suppression, stomatitis, alopecia, headaches, and fever also occurred. A review of these adverse reactions, as well as of the effects of this drug on the reproductive, renal, and pulmonary systems, is discussed.