The treatment of Reiter’s syndrome depends upon the patient’s symptoms. Methotrexate is an antimetabolite agent which is used in treating rheumatoid arthritis and Reiter’s syndrome. It is also used to treat ankylosing spondylitis, Psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease etc. There is no permanent cure for Reiter’s syndrome and it generally relapses in one third of the cases.

Methotrexate is one of the commonly used and effective medicines in treating various forms of arthritis. It is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug or DMARD as it not only reduces pain and swelling but also help in reducing joint damage and long-term disability.

Methotrexate interferes with the enzymes in the immune system. By blocking dihydrofolate reductase which is an enzyme in the body, it hinders the production of a form of folic acid which is important for growing cells actively and which comprise the skin, immune system, gastrointestinal tissues and blood.  But it is not yet clearly known how the drug decreases the severity of arthritis.

The dose of methotrexate in treatment of Reiter’s syndrome is generally in the form of 2-5 milligram tablets. For adults, a dose of 7-5 to 10 mg taken once in a week is recommended. Along with the benefits that methotrexate gives in the treatment of Reiter’s syndrome, it has it’s side effects too.

A frequent side effect of methotrexate is vomiting or nausea. It can also cause the liver to function abnormally. Many patients experience rash, diarrhoea or mouth sores. People who are affected by lung problems and are using methotrexate may experience persistent coughing or shortness of breath.

Some patients may experience slow hair loss though the hair grows again. People using methotrexate are always told to avoid or limit exposure to sunlight as the skin can become sensitive to it. It is best to avoid methotrexate by pregnant women as it can cause birth defects of a serious nature and can even complicate the pregnancy Also, if one is having kidney or liver abnormalities it then it is generally not recommended.

The medication of methotrexate is generally given for consuming once a week or a split dose to be consumed twice a week. To avoid the side effects accompanying methotrexate, a dose of folate or folic acid vitamin can be supplemented with it.

For effective treatment of Reiter’s syndrome it is best to take the dose of methotrexate as directed. When methotrexate dose is discontinued its effects on the Reiter’s syndrome become less over a period of time for e.g. in two to eight weeks. While using this medication for treatment of Reiter’s syndrome, one should limit or stop the intake of alcohol as it may increase the risk to the liver.  Also, it the patient is to receive any vaccine or has to undergo any form of surgery it is always recommended to discuss it with the doctor.