Methotrexate 10mg

Methotrexate 10mg — Uses and Benefits

Methotrexate is used to treat certain cancers, severe rheumatoid arthritis, severe plaque psoriasis, and some other autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Certain types of cancer as part of chemotherapy
• Severe active rheumatoid arthritis
• Severe, disabling plaque psoriasis not controlled by other treatments
• Some other autoimmune disorders as decided by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks an enzyme needed for cell growth and division
• Slows down fast-growing cells such as cancer cells and skin cells in psoriasis
• Suppresses an overactive immune system in autoimmune conditions

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller for everyday aches or fever
• Not used for mild psoriasis or mild joint pain
• Not to be used for pregnancy termination without strict medical supervision
• Not a substitute for other prescribed arthritis medicines unless advised

How to Use Methotrexate 10mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a week on the same fixed day, not daily, unless your doctor has specifically told you otherwise
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food, but take consistently the same way each time
• Your doctor may also prescribe folic acid on other days to reduce side effects — take this as advised
• Do not change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor
• Regular blood tests are needed to monitor liver, kidney, and blood cell counts while on this medicine

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Contact your doctor for guidance rather than taking an extra dose
• Never double the dose to make up for a missed one
• Because this is usually a weekly medicine, timing matters a lot — always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Handle tablets with care; avoid crushing or breaking without medical advice

Methotrexate 10mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness or weakness
• Mouth sores
• Headache

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Hair thinning
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rash or increased sun sensitivity
• Dizziness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of low blood counts
• Severe sore throat, fever, or signs of infection
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (liver problems)
• Severe breathlessness or persistent cough (lung problems)
• Severe stomach pain, black stools, or vomiting blood
• Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Methotrexate 10mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and must be used strictly under medical supervision. It requires regular monitoring with blood tests.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy (can cause serious birth defects)
• Are breastfeeding
• Have severe liver or kidney disease
• Have significant blood disorders or very low blood cell counts
• Have a known allergy to methotrexate
• Drink alcohol heavily or have active liver disease

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any liver, kidney, or lung disease
• Have a history of blood disorders or infections
• Are trying to conceive, whether male or female
• Are taking any other medicines, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
• Have low folate levels or poor nutrition
• Are elderly, as dose adjustment may be needed

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• NSAIDs (like ibuprofen, aspirin) used regularly
• Certain antibiotics such as trimethoprim, penicillins
• Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole
• Other immunosuppressants
• Live vaccines
• Alcohol

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine daily?

No, for most non-cancer conditions it is taken once a week on a fixed day; taking it daily by mistake can be dangerous.

Why do I also need folic acid?

Folic acid, taken on non-methotrexate days, helps reduce side effects like mouth sores and nausea.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

• No, methotrexate can cause serious harm to an unborn baby and must be avoided during pregnancy and while trying to conceive.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.