Folitrax 25mg Tablet 4'S
Netmeds First Membership
Quick Links
Introduction About FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET
FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET contains Methotrexate which belongs to the group of medicines called Antimetabolites. FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is used to manage psoriasis, which is a skin condition characterized by itchy scales that is not responsive to conventional management such as phototherapy and retinoids and lower dosages of FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
In addition, FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET also aids in managing arthritis that occurs in patients suffering from psoriasis, referred to as psoriatic arthritis. FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is also used to manage mycosis fungoides.
Mycosis fungoides is the most common type of blood cancer called cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, which is characterized by the development of different types of lesions on the skin. Apart from that, FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is also used to manage rheumatoid arthritis, which is characterized by inflammation of bones. It is an auto-immune disease that causes the body’s own immune system to cause damage to the bones.
Before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET, it is recommended to inform the doctor about your medical and family history, including the list of medicines (prescription, non-prescription medicines, and herbal medicines) that are being taken.
FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended to be taken by pregnant and nursing women, women planning pregnancy, those who drink huge amounts of alcohol, or patients suffering from liver and kidney impairment.
FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended in children who are under the age of 3 for the management of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Caution must be exercised by patients suffering from lung disorders, blood disorders, and gastric disorders before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Care must be taken to avoid taking products containing caffeine, such as black tea, coffee, and cold drinks, while taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
The common side effects seen after taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET are headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and altered levels of blood cells. Consult a doctor if any of the above side effects worsen after taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Uses Of FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET
It is used to manage:
- psoriasis
- mycosis fungoides
- rheumatoid arthritis
- arthritis in patients suffering from psoriasis (psoriatic arthritis)
How FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET Works
FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET contains methotrexate, which belongs to the class of anti-metabolites. It interferes with the growth of those cells in the body that reproduce quickly. As a result, the growth of those cells gets retarded. Thus serving as an anti-tumour agent. Also, FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET decreases the undesired reactions of the body’s own immune-defense mechanism, thereby working as an effective immunosuppressant. In addition, FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, thereby reducing pain, swelling, and redness. As a result, FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET manages the symptoms associated with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.
How to use FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET
Take FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET as advised by your physician. Swallow the medicine with a glass full of water. Do not crush or chew the medicine. Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration for you depending on your age, body weight, and disease condition.
Side Effects Of FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET
Common
- nausea
- diarrhea
- pain in the abdomen
- development of inflammation and ulcerations in the mouth
- decrease in the count of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets
- elevated level of liver enzymes
- development of a rash and reddening of the skin
- increased itch
- loss of hair
- dizziness
- large group of lung disorders resulting in the inflammation and scarring of lung
- sensitivity to light
- headache
- feeling tired and exhausted
- swelling of the mouth
- anorexia (eating disorder resulting in extreme weight loss)
Uncommon
- formation of lumps, along with pain in the back, weight loss, and the development of night sweats
- bleeding from the nose
- formation of blisters and peeling of the topmost layer of the skin
- ulcers in the vagina (women)
Rare
- elevated level of blood sugar
- development of a viral disease characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters
- depression and confusion
- difficulty and inability to move one half of the body
- decreased blood pressure
- clot in the veins, characterized by tenderness and swelling of the lower extremities
- difficulty in breathing
- lung disease
- pain and cramps in the abdomen, diarrhea, dehydration, fever, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss
- development of acne and lightened patches on the skin
- hives
- muscle and joint pain
- increase in rheumatic nodules
- loss of sexual interest
- inability to have sex
- menstrual disorders (women)
- bronchial asthma (difficult breathing along with the production of a wheezing sound)
- severe disturbances of vision
- mood fluctuations
- inflammatory conditions of the heart
- decreased blood pressure
- thromboembolic complications
- pericardial tamponade (filling of fluid such as blood around the heart)
Stop taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET and consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- infection, soreness in the throat, mouth ulcers, fever, chills
- inflammation of the lung with breathlessness characterized by persistent cough, pain or difficulty breathing, and breathlessness, especially while doing exercise
- blistering of the skin, mouth, eyes, and genitals, along with feeling sick, indicative of Stevens Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis
- skin rash and fever with swollen glands (hypersensitivity reaction)
- loss of co-ordination
- loss of ability to speak or to understand speech
- weakness leading to the inability to move one side of the body or the whole body
- convulsions or fits
- yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
- development of swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet
- fever and chills, along with rapid and fast breathing, a low count of neutrophils (white blood cells), and low blood pressure
- miscarriage
- fetal damages
- spitting out or coughing blood
- chest pain
- unexpected bleeding, as in blood from the nose, gums, urine, and vomit
- fever
- easy tendency to bleed, bruise, and persistent bleeding
How To Manage Side Effects
Diarrhea
Stick to simple meals. Avoid eating heavily rich or spicy food. Drink an oral rehydration solution to compensate for the loss of water and minerals. Stay hydrated. Consult your doctor if it persists for a long time or worsens with time.
Dizziness Or Drowsiness
Take adequate amounts of rest and sleep. Stay hydrated and replenish yourself with electrolytes. Also, do not indulge in driving or using heavy machinery, as it may prove to be dangerous.
Headache
Stay hydrated and take rest as much possible. Stay away from harsh lights and loud sounds. Apply a pain-relieving balm to the forehead. If the headache persists or worsens, consult your doctor.
Nausea And Vomiting
Stick to simple meals. Avoid eating heavily rich or spicy food. Stay hydrated. Consult your doctor if it persists for a long time or worsens with time.
Warning & Precautions
Pregnancy
ContraindicatedFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended if you are pregnant and/or are planning to become pregnant since it can be harmful to the foetus (growing baby) and lead to various malformations. Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Breastfeeding
ContraindicatedFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended if you are a nursing mother. Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Driving and Using Machines
ContraindicatedFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended if you feel tired and/or dizzy after taking the medicine. Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Alcohol
Consult your doctorIt is recommended to avoid the consumption of alcohol while taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET, as it may increase the risk of liver damage. Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Kidney
ContraindicatedFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended if you have a kidney disorder and/or are receiving any dialysis> management. Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Liver
ContraindicatedFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended if you have a liver disorder. Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Allergy
ContraindicatedFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended if you are allergic to methotrexate and/or any other constituent of FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET. Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Lungs
Use with CautionFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is recommended to be taken with caution if you have lung function and are diagnosed with pleural effusion. Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Use In Pediatrics
ContraindicatedFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended to be taken by children below the age of 3 years due to a lack of safety data. Consult your doctor before taking the medicine.
Use In Geriatrics
Use with CautionFOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is recommended to be administered with caution and in a lower dosage to elderly patients due to diminished function of the liver and kidneys and reduced folate levels in the blood. Consult the doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Others
FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended for use if you:
- have blood disorders
- have an impaired immune system
- have or had an infection
- have ulcers in the gastro-intestinal tract
- are receiving vaccinations containing live vaccines
Before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you:
- have diabetes
- have mental illness
- are receiving radiotherapy for various conditions
- are planned for any surgery (including dental managements) that involves general anaesthesia
- have ulcers in the colon (ulcerative colitis)
Interactions
A. Drug-Drug Interactions:
Before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
- medicines used to manage pain and fever (Ex. naproxen, ibuprofen, diclofenac)
- medicines used to increase urine excretion (Ex. frusemide)
- medicines used to manage epilepsy (Ex. phenytoin)
- medicines used to manage bacterial infections (Ex. amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin)
- medicines used for general anesthesia and pain relief (Ex. nitrous oxide)
- medicines that contain live vaccines (Ex. MMR vaccine)
- medicines used to manage increased sugar levels (Ex. metformin)
- medicines used to manage schizophrenia (Ex. olanzapine)
- medicines used to manage malaria (Ex. pyrimethamine)
- medicines used to manage heart failure (Ex. digoxin)
- medicines used for the management of various inflammatory conditions like skin diseases, allergic reactions (Ex. hydrocortisone)
- medicines used in the management of cancer (Ex. doxorubicin, cisplatin, and mercaptopurine)
- medicines used to manage skin conditions (Ex. retinoids)
- medicines used to manage gout (Ex. probenecid)
- other medicines used to manage rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis (Ex. leflunomide, phenylbutazone, or amidopyrine)
- medicines used to manage asthma (Ex. theophylline)
- medicines used in organ transplantation (Ex. cyclosporin, azathioprine)
- medicines used to manage reduced folic acid levels (Ex. folic acid preparations)
- medicines used to manage skin disorders (Ex. p-aminobenzoic acid)
- medicines used to manage stomach ulcers and heartburn (Ex. omeprazole)
- medicines that can be harmful to the liver (Ex. alcohol, sulfasalazine)
- medicines used to manage increased cholesterol levels (Ex. cholestyramine)
- medicines used for oral contraception (Ex. estrogen)
- medicines used to induce calmness and relieve anxiety (Ex. diazepam)
B. Drug-food interactions:
It is recommended to avoid the consumption of drinks containing caffeine, such as black tea, coffee, and soft drinks, along with FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET, to manage dehydration.
Overdosage:
If you or someone else accidentally took too much of FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET, it is recommended to consult your doctor immediately. Symptoms of overdosage with FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET are an easy tendency to bruise or bleed, nausea, vomiting, and feeling unusual weakness, along with the development of mouth sores and ulcers.
Synopsis
| Drug | : | Methotrexate |
| Pharmacological Category | : | Anti-metabolites |
| Therapeutic Indication | : | Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis, Cancer |
| Dosage Forms | : | Injection, Gel, Capsule, Tablet |
More Information
- Keep FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET out of the reach and sight of children
- Store FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET at a temperature below 25°C
FAQs About FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET
Q: What is FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET used for?
A: FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is used to manage psoriasis, which is a skin condition characterized by itchy scales that is not responsive to conventional management such as phototherapy and retinoids and lower dosages of FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET. In addition, FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET also aids in managing arthritis that occurs in patients suffering from psoriasis, referred to as psoriatic arthritis. FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is also used to manage mycosis fungoides.
Q: Can I take FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET in pregnancy?
A: FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended for use in pregnant women and/or in women who are planning pregnancy because it can be harmful for the fetus (growing baby in the womb). Consult your doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Q: Can I take FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET if I am breastfeeding a baby?
A: FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended for nursing mothers due to a lack of safety data. Consult your doctor before taking it.
Q: Can FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET be taken by children?
A: FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is not recommended in children for the management of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis for children who are less than the age of 3. Consult the doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Q: Can FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET be used by the elderly?
A: FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET is recommended to be administered with caution and in a lower dosage to elders due to diminished function of the liver and kidneys and reduced folate levels in the blood in old age. Also, it is recommended to closely monitor the elderly, taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET for the identification of possible side effects. Consult the doctor before taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET.
Q: Is there any specific food to avoid while taking FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET?
A: It is recommended to avoid the consumption of drinks containing caffeine, such as black tea, coffee, and soft drinks, along with FOLITRAX 25MG TABLET, to manage dehydration.
References
1. KD. Tripathi. Antirheumatoid and Antigout Drugs, Anticancer Drugs. Essentials of medical pharmacology. Seventh edition. 2013. Page – 210, 857.
2. Brown, P.M., Pratt, A.G. and Isaacs, J.D., 2016. Mechanism of action of Methotrexate in Rheumatoid Arthritis and the search for biomarkers. Nature Reviews Rheumatology. [Published on 27th October 2016] [Accessed on 3rd February 2024] https://www.nature.com/articles/nrrheum.2016.175
3. Orion Corporation. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC) U.K [Revised in August 2023] [Accessed on 3rd February 2024] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1376.pdf
4. Accord Healthcare Inc. U.S.A. [Revised in December 2021] [Accessed on 3rd February 2024] https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=874c7f43-a3be-4236-89cc-24c44e3c5813&type=display#section-9
5. Teva Women's Health, Inc. [Revised in April 2021] [Accessed on 3rd February 2024] https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=e942f8db-510f-44d6-acb5-b822196f5e8c&type=display#section-9
6. Pfizer Healthcare Ireland. [Revised in September 2020] [Accessed on 3rd February 2024] http://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/Licence_PA0822-206-005_23092020105544.pdf
7. Imutaj. Taj Pharma. [Accessed on 3rd February 2024] https://tajpharma.in/portfolio-item/methotrexate-tablets-ip-5mg-imutaj-taj-pharma/
Useful Diagnostic Tests
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)/ Hemogram
- Liver Function Test (LFT)
- Kidney Function Test (KFT)
Author Details
