What is the Difference Between Methotrexate and Methotrexate Sodium?

Methotrexate and methotrexate sodium are similar but not identical. The key difference between them lies in their formulation and how they are administered.

• Methotrexate: Methotrexate is a chemotherapy agent that interferes with DNA synthesis, repair, and cellular replication. It is used to treat various types of cancer, including acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
• Methotrexate Sodium: Methotrexate sodium is a salt form of methotrexate and is also a type of chemotherapy called an antimetabolite. It works by preventing cancer cells from making DNA and may also help the body's immune system kill cancer cells. Methotrexate sodium is sterile, non-pyrogenic, and can be administered by intravenous, intra-arterial, or intrathecal routes.

In summary, methotrexate is the active chemotherapy agent, while methotrexate sodium is a salt form of methotrexate that is used in specific formulations for different routes of administration. Both compounds are used to treat cancer, but their formulations and administration methods may vary.

Comparative Table: Methotrexate vs Methotrexate Sodium

Methotrexate and methotrexate sodium are similar, but they have some differences in their chemical composition and structure. Here is a table comparing the two:

Methotrexate is a chemotherapy agent used to treat various types of cancer. Methotrexate sodium is the sodium salt of methotrexate, which is also used as a chemotherapy agent. Both compounds work by inhibiting dihydrofolate acid reductase and interfering with DNA and RNA synthesis. The key difference between the two is the additional sodium component in methotrexate sodium, which does not significantly alter its function or effectiveness as a cancer treatment.