Methotrexate for JRA

Methotrexate may also be used for resistant chronic inflammatory eye disease in children with JRA. Methotrexate decreases symptoms and may slow joint damage. However, some children with JRA, especially those with polyarticular JRA, gain significant benefit from early methotrexate treatment. It is generally reserved for children who do not respond to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Most experts believe the potential benefits of methotrexate in children with JRA are greater than the risks of serious side effects, and methotrexate has become the preferred second-line medicine for children with JRA. Methotrexate reduces inflammation caused by juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Two patients in the methotrexate group were not included in the extension-study population because they withdrew before efficacy data could be obtained. Results are from analyses between groups.