Moderate interactionModerate

Methylfolate and Methotrexate: interaction, severity and spacing

Methylfolate and Methotrexate interact because methotrexate is a folate antagonist. Supplemental folate reduces side effects without compromising efficacy, but timing and dose matter. Take them with care. Moderate risk.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-20Reviewed by: StackingRight clinical review

The interaction in detail

Summary of the Methylfolate and Methotrexate interaction
PairMethylfolate and Methotrexate
TypeNutrient–drug interaction
SeverityModerate
Required spacingNone specified
OnsetAt the time of dosing

Mechanism

Methotrexate is a folate antagonist. Supplemental folate reduces side effects without compromising efficacy, but timing and dose matter.

What to do

Folic acid is usually prescribed alongside methotrexate — take it as directed rather than doubling up on your own.

How to fit both into one day

Methylfolate
morningwith food

Take folate with B12 so one-carbon metabolism is supported at both ends. Check B12 before starting high-dose folate.

Putting Methylfolate in the morning and Methotrexate in the evening satisfies the 0-hour separation without disrupting either one's absorption window.

Methylfolate and Methotrexate: common questions