What are methotrexate tablets used for?
About methotrexate Methotrexate is a type of medicine called an immunosuppressant. It slows down your body’s immune system and helps reduce inflammation. It is used to treat inflammatory conditions, including: rheumatoid arthritis.
What are the side effects of methotrexate tablets?
Methotrexate may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- dizziness.
- drowsiness.
- headache.
- swollen, tender gums.
- decreased appetite.
- reddened eyes.
- hair loss.
What are the long term side effects of methotrexate?
Methotrexate can also:
- Make lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system) more likely.
- Make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and don’t use sunlamps or tanning beds.
- Cause birth defects.
- Cause lung problems, although this is rare.
What diseases does methotrexate treat?
Methotrexate is used to treat certain types of cancer (such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) or to control severe psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis that has not responded to other treatments. It may also be used to control juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
What is the best time of day to take methotrexate?
Most arthritis patients take methotrexate orally, in a dose consisting of several pills. Some find that splitting the dose eases GI side effects. Take half the pills in the morning and the other half 12 hours later, preferably with food.
Why is methotrexate taken once a week?
Methotrexate (MTX) treatment for psoriasis is most often administered weekly, because the drug has been considered more hepatotoxic when taken daily. However, some patients may tolerate smaller, more frequent doses better.
Is 10 mg methotrexate enough?
The lowest optimally effective MTX dose varies between individual patients, but was found to be at least 10 mg. However, for a subgroup of patient it could be determined that 15mg/wk was most beneficial and therefore a starting dose of 15 mg/wk might be a good choice for these patients.
Should I drink lots of water with methotrexate?
Methotrexate may cause kidney damage. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids during your treatment with methotrexate, especially if you exercise or are physically active. Call your doctor if you think you might be dehydrated. You may become dehydrated if you sweat excessively or if you vomit, have diarrhea or have a fever.
Is it better to take methotrexate in the morning or at night?
“The most common side effects are fatigue a day or two after you take methotrexate, which is why I suggest taking it at night,” he says. “Also gastrointestinal issues. Your stool may be loose, or you may feel queasy or nauseated for a day or two after.