Critical factors for the reversal of methotrexate cytotoxicity by folinic acid
1991

Reversal of Methotrexate Cytotoxicity by Folinic Acid

Sample size: 8 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): S. Bernard, M.C. Etienne, J.L. Fischel, P. Formento, G. Milano

Primary Institution: Centre Antoine Lacassagne

Hypothesis

What is the optimal time interval and concentration ratio for folinic acid to reverse methotrexate cytotoxicity?

Conclusion

An 18-24 hour interval between methotrexate and folinic acid is critical for effective reversal of cytotoxicity.

Supporting Evidence

  • A significant inverse relationship was noted between the degree of MTX cytotoxicity reversal and the duration of the time interval between MTX and FA administration.
  • An overall 18-24 hour interval was identified as a time-threshold for effective reversal of MTX effects.
  • Shorter time intervals allowed for partial or total reversal of MTX cytotoxicity by FA.
  • The intensity of reversal varied among the cell lines tested and depended on the FA/MTX ratio.
  • The presence of the d-form of folinic acid had no significant clinical consequences.

Takeaway

If you take a medicine called methotrexate, taking another medicine called folinic acid too soon won't help you feel better. You need to wait a little while first.

Methodology

The study evaluated methotrexate cytotoxicity on human tumor cell lines using the MTT semi-automated test.

Limitations

The study was conducted in vitro, which may not fully represent in vivo conditions.

Participant Demographics

Human tumor cell lines from various cancer types including head and neck, breast, and osteosarcoma.

Statistical Information

P-Value

1.61E-7

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

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