৳ 150/unit
Pack: ৳ 150
৳ 150/unit
Pack: ৳ 150
At a glance
Methotrexate is an immunosuppressant and chemotherapy drug used for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and various cancers. It inhibits DNA synthesis to prevent cell division.
Indications
- Neoplastic diseases: Gestational choriocarcinoma, chorioadenoma destruens, hydatidiform mole, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, breast cancer, head and neck cancer, mycosis fungoides, lung cancer
- Rheumatoid arthritis (adult and juvenile)
- Severe psoriasis (not adequately responsive to other therapies)
Pharmacology
Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolate reductase to prevent tetrahydrofolate formation, which is required for purine nucleotide and thymidylate synthesis, thereby inhibiting DNA synthesis, repair, and cellular replication.
Dosage
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Adult): 7.5 mg/week (max 20 mg/week)
Psoriasis: 10-25 mg/week (max 30 mg/week)
ALL (Induction): 3.3 mg/m² + prednisone; Maintenance: 30 mg/m² twice weekly OR 2.5 mg/kg IV every 14 days
Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg/day for 5 days (3-5 courses)
Osteosarcoma (IV): 12-15 g/m² infusion + folinic acid
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Abdominal pain
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea, vomiting
- Fatigue
- Mouth sores (ulcerative stomatitis)
- Leukopenia
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Methotrexate is highly unsafe during pregnancy (Category X); definite evidence of severe fetal harm. Completely contraindicated.
Pregnancy Category: X — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Regular blood tests (blood counts, liver and kidney function) required
- Avoid alcohol (risk of liver damage)
- Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation
- Take folic acid supplements (to reduce side effects)
- Inform doctor if signs of infection occur
- Avoid pregnancy during and for 6 months after treatment
Overdose effects
Leucovorin is indicated to diminish toxicity in overdose; symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.