Which medication class does methotrexate belong to?

Methotrexate belongs to the class of medications known as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). This classification is significant because DMARDs are specifically designed to alter the underlying processes of inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. They help to control inflammation and prevent the progression of joint damage over time.

Methotrexate works by inhibiting the production of certain immune responses and suppressing the activity of inflammatory cells, which are crucial in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Its ability to modify the disease course distinguishes it from other types of medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which primarily relieve symptoms like pain and inflammation without modifying the disease itself.

This mechanism highlights the importance of methotrexate and similar DMARDs in long-term management of chronic inflammatory conditions, making them integral to treatment strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes and preserving joint function.