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Methotrexate

Generic of Trexall

What is Methotrexate used for?

Methotrexate is used to treat certain types of cancer, severe psoriasis, or rheumatoid arthritis. It may also be used to treat a certain type of arthritis in children (polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis - pJIA). Methotrexate belongs to a class of drugs known as antimetabolites. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells and blocking the immune system from attacking healthy tissue. Early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with methotrexate helps to reduce further joint damage and to preserve joint function.

CHEMICAL NAME

Methotrexate Sodium (meth-oh-TREX-ate)

DRUG TYPE

Inflammatory Conditions

Methotrexate Prices

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Methotrexate Frequently Asked Questions

Methotrexate has rarely caused serious (sometimes fatal) side effects. This medication should be used only to treat cancer or severe diseases caused by an overactive immune system (such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis).

Methotrexate formulations with preservatives must not be used for high-dose treatment or injected into the area around the spinal cord (intrathecal).

Methotrexate has caused birth defects and death in unborn babies. Women must avoid becoming pregnant while using this medication. Pregnant women who have psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis must not use methotrexate. (See also Precautions section.)

If you have kidney problems or excess body water (ascites, pleural effusion), you must be closely monitored and your dose may be adjusted or stopped by your doctor.

Methotrexate (usually at high dosages) has rarely caused severe (sometimes fatal) blood/bone marrow problems (decreasing your body's ability to fight infections) and stomach/intestinal disease (such as bleeding) when used at the same time as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs such as indomethacin, ketoprofen). NSAIDs should not be used with high-dose methotrexate. Caution is advised if you also take aspirin. NSAIDs/aspirin may be used with low-dose methotrexate such as for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis if directed by your doctor. If your doctor has told you to take low-dose aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke (usually 81-162 milligrams a day), you should keep taking the aspirin unless your doctor tells you not to. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details on the safe use of these drugs (such as close monitoring by your doctor, keeping the same doses of NSAIDs).

In rare instances, this drug may also cause liver problems when it is used for long periods of time. If you are using methotrexate long term, a liver biopsy is usually recommended.

Methotrexate use has rarely caused serious (sometimes fatal) side effects, such as lung problems, lung infections (Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia), skin reactions, diarrhea, and mouth sores (ulcerative stomatitis). (See also Side Effects section.)

Lumps (tumors/abnormal growths) may very rarely appear during methotrexate use. The drug must be stopped and treatment may be needed. Tell your doctor right away if new lumps/growths occur.

When used to treat tumors, methotrexate sometimes causes side effects due to the rapid destruction of cancer cells (tumor lysis syndrome). To lower your risk, drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Also, your doctor may prescribe an additional medication. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, low back/side pain, signs of kidney problems (such as pink/bloody urine, change in the amount of urine, painful urination), or muscle spasms/weakness.

When this medication is used with radiation treatment, it may rarely increase the risk of tissue and bone damage. Discuss the risks and benefits of your treatment with your doctor.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

Methotrexate Dosage and Form Information

Supplied As
Strength
Tablet
2.5 Mg
Vial
25 Mg/Ml
1 G