Can methotrexate be administered subcutaneously?
Yes, it is possible to administer methotrexate subcutaneously. In some countries Teva markets pre-filled syringes in several dosages (10, 15, 20 and 25 mg). The pre-filled syringes are indicated for the treatment of severe active rheumatoid arthritis, polyarthritic forms of severe active juvenile idiopathic arthritis and severe psoriasis vulgaris and arthritis psoriatica. The availability of the pre-filled syringes per country can be checked on this website. In literature it is described that the pharmacokinetics after subcutaneous and intramuscular administration are comparable1. Note that with larger volumes injected subcutaneously, pain at the injection site is more likely to occur. 1) Brooks PJ et al. Pharmacokinetics of methotrexate administered by intramuscular and subcutaneous injections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheum. 1990 Jan;33(1):91-4.
