Rheumatrex

methotrexate

Methotrexate Sodium Tablets

What is Methotrexate Sodium?

Methotrexate sodium is a chemotherapy medication. It's a powerful drug that targets rapidly dividing cells, like those found in cancers and in certain tissues (such as the mouth and stomach lining). This makes it effective against various cancers, including leukemias, lymphomas, breast cancer, lung cancer, and head and neck cancers. Interestingly, because of its effect on cell growth, it's also used to treat non-cancerous conditions like psoriasis (a skin disease) and rheumatoid arthritis (an inflammatory joint disease). The dosage differs significantly depending on the condition being treated; for arthritis or psoriasis, it's typically administered once a week.

Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

Before starting methotrexate sodium, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about certain health conditions you may have. This includes:

• Bleeding disorders or blood-related problems: Methotrexate can affect blood cell production.
• HIV/AIDS: The drug can interact with medications used to treat these conditions.
• Heavy alcohol consumption: Alcohol can exacerbate liver damage, a potential side effect of methotrexate.
• Infections or weakened immune system: Methotrexate can suppress the immune system, increasing infection risk.
• Kidney disease: Methotrexate is processed by the kidneys, so impaired kidney function can lead to complications.
• Liver disease: Methotrexate can be toxic to the liver.
• Lung disease: Methotrexate can cause lung problems in some individuals.
• Stomach ulcers or ulcerative colitis: Methotrexate can worsen gastrointestinal issues.
• Allergies: Any allergies to methotrexate, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives should be reported.
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant: Methotrexate is teratogenic (can cause birth defects).
• Breastfeeding: Methotrexate passes into breast milk.

How to Take Methotrexate Sodium

Methotrexate sodium is taken orally, swallowed whole with a full glass of water. The dosage and frequency are determined by your doctor and will vary based on your condition and overall health. It's crucial to follow the prescribed dosage exactly; do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor. For rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, the medication is usually given only once a week.

Children require special care, so discuss the appropriate dosage with your pediatrician.

In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting a poison control center or emergency room.

This medication is for personal use only. Do not share it with others.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or healthcare professional immediately. Do not double up on doses to compensate for a missed dose. If you vomit after taking a dose, contact your doctor for further instructions.

Potential Drug Interactions

Methotrexate sodium can interact with several other medications, including:

• Antibiotics and other anti-infectives: These can affect how methotrexate is processed.
• Aspirin and aspirin-like medications (including bismuth subsalicylate): These can increase the risk of bleeding.
• NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen or naproxen: These can increase the risk of side effects.
• Probenecid: This medication can increase methotrexate levels in the body.
• Trimetrexate: This is a similar chemotherapy drug that should not be taken with methotrexate.
• Vaccines: Live vaccines should be avoided while on methotrexate.

This isn't an exhaustive list. Always provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, herbs, supplements, and substances you are using, including alcohol and tobacco.

Monitoring Your Health While on Methotrexate Sodium

Regular monitoring is essential while taking methotrexate. Your doctor will schedule blood tests to check your blood counts and liver function. A chest X-ray may be required before starting treatment. If you are using methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis, you may not notice improvements for several weeks.

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking methotrexate, as both can damage the liver. The medication can also weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections; avoid contact with sick individuals. Drink plenty of fluids to help protect your kidneys.

Reliable birth control is crucial for both men and women. Pregnancy should be avoided during treatment and for a period after treatment cessation (consult your doctor for specifics). Breastfeeding is not advised while taking this medication.

Inform your doctor or dentist if you're undergoing any surgery or dental procedures while taking methotrexate.

Methotrexate can increase sun sensitivity. Use sunscreen, protective clothing, and limit sun exposure. Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.

Possible Side Effects

Report these side effects to your doctor immediately:

• Bruising, pinpoint red spots on the skin, black tarry stools, blood in the urine (signs of bleeding)
• Vision changes
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing or a dry cough
• Mouth and throat ulcers
• Skin reactions (redness, blistering, peeling, loosening of skin, including inside the mouth)
• Skin rash, hives, or itching
• Signs of infection (fever, chills, cough, sore throat, painful urination)
• Extreme weakness or fatigue, fainting
• Vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention but should be reported if they persist or worsen:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Storage Instructions

Keep methotrexate sodium out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature (68-77°F or 20-25°C), protected from light. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.

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