Methotrexate is used to treat certain types of cancer of the breast, skin, head and neck, or lung. It is also used to treat severe psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate is typically used when other medications have failed to achieve the desired results.
What is Methotrexate?
Methotrexate interferes with the growth of certain cells, especially cells that multiply rapidly. These types of cells include cancer cells, bone marrow cells and skin cells.
How should Methotrexate be taken?
Methotrexate may be administered orally or through forms of injections (intramuscularly or intravenously). The treatment can be combined with other drugs and dosages are typically administered 1 or 2 times a week. Daily intake of methotrexate can have very severe consequences.
Side effects associated with Methotrexate
Methotrexate can lower immune cells and reduce the ability of blood clotting. It can also have severe side effects on the liver, lungs and kidneys.
Among the other possible side effects of methotrexate include the following:
- Vomiting and stomach problems
- Headaches, dizziness and tiredness
- Tarnished vision
It is important to stop taking the drug and contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Dry cough
- Shortness of breath
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- White spots or patches in the mouth or on the lips
- Bloody urine or stool
- Swelling
- Rapid weight gain
- Little or no urination
- Convulsions
- Fever, chills, aches or flu-like symptoms
- Paleness, bruising, bleeding, weakness, feeling faint or lightheaded
- Liver problems
- Severe skin reactions
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Methotrexate
Before starting treatment with methotrexate, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs or food
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: anticoagulants, beta-blockers, digitalis glycosides, theophylline and corticosteroids
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from alcoholism, cirrhosis or fatty liver problems, blood disorders (such as anemia or leukopenia), bone marrow problems, folate deficiency, pneumonia or other lung diseases, stomach ulcers or infections
- You are undergoing radiation therapy
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
Before starting treatment with methotrexate, it is necessary to take a pregnancy test. During treatment, it is important to use methods of contraception (even if you are a man), continue to do so for at least 90 days or stop taking the drug after your first ovulation cycle.
