Cytotrexate 2.5mg Tablets (100’s) – Methotrexate for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis & Cancer Therapy

Description:

Cytotrexate 2.5mg Tablets contain Methotrexate, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) and antimetabolite that helps control autoimmune diseases and certain cancers.

Methotrexate works by suppressing the immune system and slowing the growth of rapidly dividing cells, thereby reducing inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, and inhibiting tumor growth in some cancers.

It is a prescription-only medicine that must be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Ingredients:

Each tablet contains:

• Methotrexate – 2.5 mg

Inactive ingredients: Lactose monohydrate, maize starch, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and other excipients.

Drug Class:

• Antimetabolite

• Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drug (DMARD)

• Antineoplastic Agent

Dosage Form:

• Tablet

Uses:

Cytotrexate 2.5mg is prescribed for:

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

• Psoriasis (severe, resistant cases)

• Psoriatic arthritis

• Certain cancers, including:

  • Leukemia

  • Lymphoma

  • Breast cancer

  • Head and neck cancers

  • Lung cancer

Dosage:

• For arthritis/psoriasis: Usually taken once a week, as directed by the doctor.

• For cancer treatment: May be given daily or weekly depending on medical advice.

• Folic acid supplementation is often prescribed to reduce side effects.

Important: Never take Cytotrexate daily unless specifically instructed by your doctor for cancer treatment.

In Case of Overdose:

Methotrexate overdose can be serious or fatal. Symptoms may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, or severe mouth ulcers

• Unusual bleeding or bruising

• Difficulty breathing

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)

• Extreme fatigue or confusion

👉 Seek emergency medical attention immediately if overdose is suspected. Treatment may involve leucovorin (folinic acid) rescue therapy.

Missed Dose:

• Take as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose.

• Never double the dose to make up for the missed one.

• Contact your doctor for instructions if you miss a weekly dose.

How To Use:

1. Take with a full glass of water, with or without food.

2. Follow your doctor’s exact dosing schedule (usually once weekly).

3. Do not change the day or dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.

4. Wash hands after handling tablets.

5. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

When Not to Use:

Do not use Cytotrexate if you:

• Are allergic to Methotrexate or any of its components.

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Have liver or kidney disease.

• Have blood disorders (low blood cell counts, anemia).

• Have immune deficiency or active infection.

• Are excessively consuming alcohol.

Side Effects:

Common side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite

• Fatigue or dizziness

• Mouth sores or ulcers

• Abdominal discomfort

Serious side effects:

• Liver damage (yellowing of eyes/skin)

• Lung inflammation (shortness of breath, cough)

• Severe infections

• Low white/red blood cell counts

• Skin rash or peeling

• Unusual bleeding or bruising

👉 Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any severe side effects.

Precautions & Warnings:

• Regular blood tests (CBC, liver & kidney function) are required during therapy.

• Avoid alcohol — increases the risk of liver toxicity.

• Do not receive live vaccines during treatment.

• Use reliable contraception during and for 6 months after treatment (both men & women).

• Avoid prolonged sun exposure — may cause skin sensitivity.

• Stop medication and inform your doctor if you develop fever, sore throat, cough, or signs of infection.

Drug Interactions:

Cytotrexate may interact with:

• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin) – increased toxicity risk

• Antibiotics (penicillins, sulfonamides) – reduced clearance

• Proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole) – increases Methotrexate levels

• Phenytoin, sulfa drugs, probenecid – increases toxicity risk

• Folic acid – reduces side effects but should be dosed separately

• Live vaccines – avoid during therapy

Storage/Disposal:

• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place.

• Protect from light and moisture.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Dispose of unused or expired medicine safely; do not flush down the drain.

Control Drug:

• Prescription Only Medicine (Rx)

• Cytotoxic – Handle with Care

Quick Tips:

• Always take once weekly, not daily (unless instructed by a cancer specialist).

• Avoid alcohol and sun exposure.

• Maintain adequate hydration.

• Do not self-medicate or change dosage.

• Use effective birth control during treatment.

• Take folic acid as prescribed to minimize side effects.