Methotrexate
Description
Generic Name: methotrexate
Drug Class: antimetabolites
Indications
Rheumatrex is an oral prescription drug used to treat gestational choriocarcinoma, chorioadenoma destruens, and hydatidiform mole. It is also being prescribed for breast cancer, epidermoid cancers of the head and neck, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and lung cancer. This is also indicated to treat severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis. Additionally, this is also used to manage severe, active rheumatoid arthritis and polyarticular-course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Dosage Forms
This is available in Rheumatrex 2.5 mg tablets.
Rheumatrex Mechanism of Action
It prevents nucleotide synthesis by inhibiting enzymes involved in the process. These enzymes include dihydrofolate reductase, thymidylate synthase, aminoimidazole carboxamide ribonucleotide transformylase, and amido phosphoribosyl transferase. By inhibiting nucleotide synthesis, cell division can be prevented.
How to Take Rheumatrex
Before you start taking Rheumatrex, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take any medication unless you have understood the uses and directions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further medical advice or additional details.
This tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth. For psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, this is usually prescribed once a week. It is suitable for consumption with or without meals. After swallowing the tablet completely, drink plenty of water. Cutting, crushing, or chewing this product is not recommended.
It is absolutely crucial to follow all the instructions given by your physician. It is a good idea to make a dosing schedule. Do not increase or decrease your dosage. You should not take this oral medication more frequently than recommended. Taking this drug at a higher dose can lead to very serious side effects.
Rheumatrex Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Drowsiness
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Tiredness
-Stomach upset
-Abdominal pain
-Blurred vision
-Temporary hair loss
Severe Side Effects:
-Anemia
-Mouth sores
-Diarrhea
-Persistent nausea and vomiting
-Severe abdominal pain
-Easy bruising and bleeding
-Enlarged lymph nodes
-Bone pain
-Pain and discoloration of the skin
-Dry cough
-Muscle weakness
-Changes in urine output
-Weakness on one side of the body
-Severe headache
-Irregular heartbeat
-Seizures
-Vision changes
-Fever
-Mental or mood changes
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Rheumatrex.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and report side effects to your doctor or healthcare professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take Rheumatrex if you have a known allergy to methotrexate or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Always be watchful for any signs of serious allergic reactions, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. If this occurs, stop taking this oral medication and seek emergency medical help immediately.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of a suppressed immune system, lung disease, liver disease, kidney disease, blood cell or bone marrow disorder, a gastrointestinal condition, folic acid deficiency, and an active infection. You should also discuss all of your prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and herbal products with your doctor owing to the possibility of drug interactions.
A weakened defense system can be caused by this antimetabolite. This drug can possibly mask signs of infection or make you more likely to get an infection. Do not come in contact with people who have or have recently acquired infections, such as flu, chickenpox, or measles. You should also inform your healthcare provider before receiving any live vaccines.
Dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision are among the common adverse reactions to this medication. Practice safety caution when doing tasks that would need alertness and clear vision, especially driving. You must also limit drinking alcohol while taking this tablet.
Methotrexate can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. You should restrict or limit your time under the sun and avoid indoor tanning. When going outdoors, remember to apply sunblock lotion and wear protective clothing.
This type of drug can affect fertility in both men and women. If you are trying to get pregnant, you must discuss other options with your doctor.
Pregnant moms must avoid this medication because of the harm that it can cause to unborn babies. Since this can also be absorbed through the skin and lungs, pregnant women are advised not to touch this medication or breathe the dust from it. The same goes for breastfeeding moms. This should also be avoided as it is known to pass into the breastmilk and bring undesirable effects to nursing infants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Rheumatrex used for?
Rheumatrex (generic name: methotrexate) is used to treat certain types of cancer, severe psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. It’s also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis in children.
How do you take Rheumatrex?
Rheumatrex should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. The dosage is determined by the patient’s medical condition and therapeutic response.
What should you avoid while taking Rheumatrex?
Avoid drinking beer, including wine, while taking this medication. Alcohol can possibly increase the risk of liver problems.
Does Rheumatrex shorten your life?
Not much is known about how Rheumatrex can affect mortality. However, this medication is known to decrease radiologic progression and disease activity.
Is Rheumatrex a high-risk drug?
Yes, Rheumatrex is a high-alert oral medication. You must always take caution while on this treatment.
Can I buy Rheumatrex in Canada?
Yes, medications like Rheumatrex tablets are available in Canada. You must present a valid prescription when purchasing this drug.
How much does Rheumatrex cost?
You may see the list of prices on this page by clicking here. Get the best deals when you order your prescription drugs from Pharma Passport.