methotrexate rescue (leucovorin rescue)

Methotrexate rescue, or leucovorin rescue, is a treatment strategy used to protect healthy cells from the side effects of methotrexate, a chemotherapy drug. Methotrexate works by stopping cancer cells from growing, but it can also affect normal cells. Leucovorin, a form of folic acid, is given after methotrexate to "rescue" normal cells by helping them recover and continue healthy functioning. This approach allows effective cancer treatment while reducing damage to normal tissues, making the therapy safer and more tolerable.