Alpha-linolenic Acid (ala) - Methotrexate Interaction

Herbal: Alpha-linolenic Acid (ala)
Also Known As: ALA, R-alpha-linolenic acid

Drug: Methotrexate
Brand names: Rheumatrex, Otrexup, Rasuvo, Reditrex

Medical Content Editor
Last updated Apr 13, 2024

Interaction Details

There were no interactions found between Methotrexate and Alpha-linolenic Acid (ala). This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Still looking for more information about combining Methotrexate and Alpha-linolenic Acid (ala)? Ask Dr. Brian Staiger about it by contacting him directly.

Alpha-linolenic Acid (ala) Overview

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential omega-3 fatty acid. It is primarily found in vegetable oils like flaxseed, canola, and soybean oils, as well as in red meat, dairy products, margarines, and salad dressings containing vegetable oils. Walnuts and other edible nuts are also significant sources of ALA, along with smaller amounts in green leafy vegetables and chocolate. ALA is present in human breast milk, infant formulas, and intravenous fat emulsions. The body converts ALA into longer and more unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, with conversion rates typically low but possibly as high as 30%. However, in some disease states like type 1 diabetes, chronic alcoholism, and schizophrenia, the conversion of ALA to longer-chain fatty acids is reduced, though the reason for this remains unknown. R-ALA, or R-alpha-linolenic acid, is a specific form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) that occurs naturally in foods. Unlike ALA, which encompasses both R-ALA and S-ALA forms, R-ALA is the biologically active isomer that is more readily absorbed and utilized by the body.
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Methotrexate Overview

  • Methotrexate is used to treat severe psoriasis (a skin disease in which red, scaly patches form on some areas of the body) that cannot be controlled by other treatments. Methotrexate is also used along with rest, physical therapy, and sometimes other medications to treat severe active rheumatoid arthritis (RA; a condition in which the body attacks its own joints, causing pain, swelling, and loss of function) that cannot be controlled by certain other medications. Methotrexate is also used to treat certain types of cancer including cancers that begin in the tissues that form around a fertilized egg in the uterus, breast cancer, lung cancer, certain cancers of the head and neck, certain types of lymphoma, and leukemia (cancer that begins in the white blood cells). Methotrexate is in a class of medications called antimetabolites. Methotrexate treats cancer by slowing the growth of cancer cells. Methotrexate treats psoriasis by slowing the growth of skin cells to stop scales from forming. Methotrexate may treat rheumatoid arthritis by decreasing the activity of the immune system.

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Alpha-linolenic Acid (ala) - More Interactions

Alpha-linolenic Acid (ala) interacts with 0 drugs

Interaction Rating Key

These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.

Major The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur.
Moderate Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur.
Minor Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction.
Unknown No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available.

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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!

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