Methotrexate

Methotrexate is used to treat various conditions.
Methotrexate is available as 2.5mg and 10mg tablets- it is important NOT to get these mixed up.
You will normally be asked to take folic acid tablets along with methotrexate.
Usually doses of methotrexate are given WEEKLY.
You will need regular blood tests while taking methotrexate.
You should be given a booklet to record your blood test results and any change in dose.
You must report all symptoms and signs suggestive of infection, especially sore throat.
You must tell your doctor if you are planning to start a family.

About methotrexate

Type of medicine	Cytotoxic antimetabolite
Used for	Rheumatoid arthritis Psoriasis Cancer of various types
Also called	Maxtrex
Available as	Tablets Injection (mostly in hospital)

Methotrexate is used to treat conditions where some kind of over-activity in the body is causing problems. Methotrexate prevents this over-activity.

Cancers form when cells in the body multiply in a way that is out of control and abnormal. These cells then spread and destroy nearby tissues. Methotrexate works by stopping the cancer cells from dividing and multiplying.
It is thought that rheumatoid arthritis is caused by excessive activity of the immune system; methotrexate may work by suppressing this excessive activity and so reducing inflammation.
In psoriasis, methotrexate prevents the excessive division and multiplication of skin cells that causes skin scaling and raised plaques.

Before taking methotrexate

Before taking methotrexate make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
If you suffer from any blood disorders.
If you are suffering from diarrhoea.
If you have any stomach problems.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you and your partner are trying for a baby.

Before you start taking methotrexate your doctor will arrange a chest x-ray and do some blood tests.

How to take methotrexate

Usually doses of methotrexate are given WEEKLY. Make sure that you take each dose on the correct day and at the correct time. Methotrexate is only occasionally taken more frequently, usually when the patient is in hospital. Do not take this medicine every day, unless you are sure your doctor has instructed you to do so.
Methotrexate tablets are available in two strengths: 2.5 mg and 10 mg. The amount of methotrexate you take will have been carefully calculated for your particular condition and to suit your individual requirements. Make sure you take the correct dosage. If you are not sure how many to take or your tablets look different to your last prescription speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Handle the tablets as little as possible.

Getting the most from your treatment

While you are taking methotrexate, and for a while after you stop treatment, do not have any immunisations (vaccinations) without talking to your doctor first. Methotrexate lowers the body's resistance and there is a chance that you may get an infection from live vaccines.
Do not take medicines containing aspirin, ibuprofen or folic acid while taking methotrexate, without first consulting your doctor. Some over the counter medicines for colds may contain aspirin or ibuprofen. Check with your pharmacist if you are unsure about the contents of any medicine.
Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking methotrexate.
You should be given a treatment booklet when you start to take methotrexate. Use this to record your dose of methotrexate and any test results. Take this booklet to all your doctor and hospital appointments and to the Pharmacy when you collect your prescription. If you have not been given a treatment booklet ask for one at your next appointment.

Can methotrexate cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine	What can I do if I experience this
Rash, itching	Speak to your pharmacist who may be able to recommend a cream for relief. If side effects continue, speak to your doctor.
Photosensitivity (skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight)	Try to avoid sunlight and sunbeds or use a sun protection cream higher then factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.
Mouth ulcers	Speak to your pharmacist who may be able to recommend a gel for relief.
Chest pain, breathing problems	Contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea	Speak to your doctor who may reduce the dose.
Headaches, drowsiness, blurred vision	Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.

How to store methotrexate

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

DocID:
1079

DocRef:
dils2282

Last Updated:
30 Oct 2006

Date of Next Review:
29 Oct 2008

Version:
22

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