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Methotrexate monitoring — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardAdverse Drug ReactionsMethotrexate monitoringGPhC CRA

A patient established on methotrexate 15 mg once weekly for rheumatoid arthritis has stable results and no recent dose change. Which ongoing laboratory panel is required?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: AFull blood count, liver tests and renal function at agreed intervals

Stable low-dose methotrexate still requires periodic FBC, liver-function and renal-function monitoring because marrow suppression, hepatotoxicity and accumulation can occur. Frequency follows specialist or shared-care guidance and increases after dose changes or when risk factors emerge.

Reference: BNF: methotrexate: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/methotrexate/