Methotrexate

Molecule Description

Methotrexate is a medicine which kills cells in tumors, cancers and also suppre

sses the immune system.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Methotrexate

To treat psoriasis
To treat rheumatoid arthritis
To treat various types of cancers such as breast and lung cancers
Also used as a single agent or in combination with anti-cancer medications

Contraindications of Methotrexate

When should one not use Methotrexate

Allergic reaction to this medicine
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Severe liver or kidney disease
Decreased platelets and white blood cells
If you have recently received a live vaccine
If you have ulcers in the mouth
If you have fever, joint pain

Side effects of Methotrexate

Common side effects of this drug are:

Diarrhea
Mouth ulcers
Weakness
Menstrual problems
Skin rash
Persistent cough
Joint pain, muscle pain
Stomach pain
Swelling of feet
Dizziness
Yellowing of the skin (liver damage)
Fever with chills
Unusual bleeding
Blurred vision
Temporary hair Loss
Loss of appetite
Difficulty in passing urine
Nausea or vomiting
Decrease white blood cells

Precautions and Warnings of Methotrexate

Pregnancy

Can I take Methotrexate during pregnancy?

It is highly unsafe to use during pregnancy. Human and animal studies have shown significant side effects on fetus like birth defects or miscarriage. If you are a woman of childbearing age, strictly use contraception and avoid pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Methotrexate while breastfeeding?

Methotrexate is strictly not to be taken during breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Methotrexate?

Do not drive until your vision is clear. It may cause dizziness, drowsiness.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Methotrexate?

Alcohol should be avoided while receiving Methotrexate as it increases the chances of damaging your liver.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have kidney disease, ulcers in the stomach, diabetes mellitus or any infections
You have received any live vaccines
You should avoid having a baby at least 6 months after stopping Methotrexate as this medicine affects sperm and egg production
If you experience cough with blood or pink color sputum immediately inform your doctor
Taking more medicine than what is prescribed by your doctor can be very harmful and should be avoided
If you are on this medicine for the long term, regular health check-ups are required

Mode of Action of Methotrexate

How Does It Work?

It works by stopping or slowing down the growth of cancer cells and suppress the immune system. In rheumatoid arthritis, it works by decreasing the activity of the body's immune system. This decrease ...

Interactions of Methotrexate

Interactions with other medicines

Using Methotrexate with individual Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen, Aceclofenac, Acemetacin and Diclofenac can cause severe and sometimes fatal bone marrow suppression...
Read more
When used along with radiotherapy, Methotrexate may increase the risk of cell death in soft tissues and bones
Live vaccines
Cyclosporin’s (used in transplantation)

Interactions with food items

No information is available on interactions of Methotrexate when taken with food, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dietary Restrictions of Methotrexate

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Methotrexate, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.

Dosage of Methotrexate

Overdose

In overdose, vomiting, diarrhea and gastrointestinal bleeding may occur. Severe bone marrow suppression may occur. Liver toxicity is more likely in patients with pre-existing risk factors for liver di...

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is time for your next dose. Do not take an extra dose of medicine to make up the missed dose. Be very careful with t...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What precautions should I take before treatment with Methotrexate?

A: Prolonged use of Methotrexate may cause liver damage, including cirrhosis (irreversible scarring of the liver), which may be fatal. High doses of Methotrexate can also damage the kidneys and cause kidney failure. People with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis may not be suitable for Methotrexate if they have alcoholism, alcoholic liver disease or other chronic liver diseases, have an immunodeficiency syndrome, have a blood deficiency disorder such as anemia (low red blood cell count), leukopenia (low white blood count) or thrombocytopenia (low blood platelet count).

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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