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Forum > Cancer - Active Topics: Cancer - Active Topics

Methotrexate use by father

CCoPE
Date: 2009-06-22

Question:
Hi My boyfriend was on a weekly dose of Methotrexate for arthritis. He was only on it for 1.5 months and then stopoed taking it as he knew I may want children in the future. He has not been taking it for two and a half months. If I was to become pregnant now, would there be a risk of abnormalities in the baby? Some information on the internet suggests that the man has to stop taking the drug 3 to 6 months before trying for a baby. Thank you so much.

Answer:
If you are a patient, consult your physician. The following should not replace the assessment and advice you have been receiving or may receive from your physician (cancer specialist, obstetrician or other healthcare provider). It is offered for your information only.

In a case study looking at three men exposed to Methotrexate for the treatment of rheumetoid arthritis, impotence was a significant side effect. However this dysfunction was reversible after the treatment was stopped. There have been several cases of normal children being born to parent who had methotrexate exposure prior to conception. Although the half life for methotrexate is 8-15 hours it can be retained in some human tissue for months, thus some literature suggest delaying pregnancy for three months prior to conceiving.

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