MedDataToolMethotrexate is a medication used to treat several conditions, including certain types of cancer like acute lymphoblastic leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and severe psoriasis. It works by interfering with the growth of rapidly dividing cells in the body, which is why it's effective for these conditions. The medication is taken as a tablet, usually once a week, with starting doses varying based on the condition; for rheumatoid arthritis, the starting dose is 7.5 mg, while for psoriasis, it can be between 10 to 25 mg, not exceeding 30 mg per week. It's very important for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to avoid this medication, as it can cause serious harm to the developing fetus. Additionally, patients should be cautious if they are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as this can increase the risk of side effects.
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Uses
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adults and children.
- Mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T-cell lymphoma) in adults.
- Relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma in adults.
- Rheumatoid arthritis in adults.
- Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) in children.
- Severe psoriasis in adults.
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Dosage
- 20 mg/m² once weekly for ALL. 25 to 75 mg once weekly for mycosis fungoides. 2.5 mg two to four times per week for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. 7.5 mg once weekly for rheumatoid arthritis. 10 mg/m² once weekly for pJIA. 10 to 25 mg once weekly for psoriasis.
- Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
ulcerative stomatitisleukopenianauseaabdominal distresshypersensitivity reactions
Serious
myelosuppressiongastrointestinal toxicityhepatotoxicitypulmonary toxicitysevere infectionsneurotoxicity
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Can cause embryo-fetal toxicity, including fetal death.
- Contraindicated in pregnancy for non-neoplastic diseases.
- History of severe hypersensitivity reactions to methotrexate is a contraindication.
- Monitor for serious adverse reactions affecting bone marrow, liver, lungs, skin, and kidneys.
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Drug interactions
- Oral antibioticsmay increase methotrexate levelsCaution
- Antifolate drugsmay increase methotrexate levelsCaution
- Aspirin and NSAIDsmay increase methotrexate levelsCaution
- Probenecidmay increase methotrexate levelsCaution
- Nitrous Oxidemay increase risk of severe reactionsCaution
Ask about this drug
Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).