Methotrexate (Non-Cancer)

What is Methotrexate (Non-Cancer) for?

How should I take or use Methotrexate (Non-Cancer)?

• Methotrexate should be taken as prescribed by the doctor. It is usually given orally once weekly, taken at the same day of each week.
  
• A typical adult dose ranges from 7.5 milligrams to 25 milligrams per week. The dose varies for each person depending upon many factors such as how active your disease is and how you respond to or tolerate the medicine. Your doctor may reduce the dose if you develop side effects.
• Methotrexate should be taken after food to avoid gastric discomfort. If you vomit within a few hours of taking Methotrexate, do not take another dose. Make a note and let your doctor know if this happens again the following week.
• Methotrexate tablets should be swallowed whole. The tablets should not be crushed or chewed.
• However, for people who are unable to swallow tablets whole, your pharmacist may advise you to soak the tablets in water for a few minutes before grinding them to minimise the inhalation of medicine powder. Talk to your pharmacist for further details if you have difficulty swallowing.
• Rarely, your doctor may prescribe Methotrexate injection to replace the oral tablet to achieve better result. It is to be given via injection under the skin (subcutaneously) of your stomach, thigh or upper outer arm. You or your carer should receive training on how to inject Methotrexate from your doctor, pharmacist or specialty nurse prior to attempting the administration on your own. Always remember to rotate the injection site.
• You may start to see improvement within a few weeks, but it may take up to 3 months to experience its full benefit.
• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Methotrexate (Non-Cancer)?

If you forget to take a dose (e.g. every Monday), take it as soon as you remember (i.e. Tuesday). If you forget to take the dose for 2 days, omit the dose that week and take your next dose on the usual day (i.e. Monday). Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using Methotrexate (Non-Cancer)?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
  
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding:
  
• Methotrexate may impair fertility in both men and women. Both men and women of childbearing age must use a reliable method of contraception to avoid the risk of an unplanned pregnancy as Methotrexate can cause serious defects to unborn child.
• Low amount of Methotrexate passes into human breast milk and may cause serious unwanted effects to the child. You should not breastfeed if you are taking Methotrexate.
  
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies
• Avoid raw (e.g. sashimi) or half-cooked foods (e.g. half-boiled eggs) to prevent food poisoning.
  
• Alcohol may interact with Methotrexate and increase the risk of liver toxicity. It should be avoided if possible or kept to minimum amount as suggested by your doctor.
• Immunization status should be current before starting the medicine. Always consult your doctor before going for immunisation.

What are some common side effects of Methotrexate (Non-Cancer)?

How should I store Methotrexate (Non-Cancer)?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
• Store at room temperature

How do I throw away Methotrexate (Non-Cancer) safely?

Methotrexate should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Consult your pharmacist or specialty nurse on disposal measures for unused medicines. You may bring the unused medicines to the pharmacy or clinic for proper disposal.