Methotrexate is used to treat which condition?

• A. Diabetes mellitus
• B. Hypertension
• C. Rheumatoid arthritis
• D. Gout

Answer: (C)

This question tests your understanding of what methotrexate is used for. Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that helps control autoimmune inflammation by inhibiting folate metabolism, which reduces immune activity and slows joint damage. It is a standard treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, aiming to decrease pain, stiffness, and long-term progression of joint damage.

Diabetes mellitus is managed with insulin or oral hypoglycemics, not methotrexate. Hypertension is treated with antihypertensive medications. Gout is typically managed with NSAIDs, colchicine, or urate-lowering therapy like allopurinol, rather than methotrexate.

Be mindful that methotrexate can cause liver toxicity and bone marrow suppression, so monitoring liver enzymes and blood counts is important.