Methotrexate Tablets I.P. 10 mg
MUNAXIT 10
Methotrexate Tablets I.P. 10 mg is a prescribed medication to treat certain types of cancer, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory conditions. Methotrexate belongs to a group of medicines called antimetabolites. These medications work by blocking the growth of fast-growing cells. Because methotrexate can suppress the immune system, it is prescribed for non-cancerous diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease.
Mechanism of Action
Methotrexate is an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins in cells. Inhibiting this enzyme leads to reduced cell growth. Rapidly growing cells are affected more readily, including cancer cells and overactive immune cells. This inhibited cellular growth decreases the progression of autoimmune diseases and malignant growth.
Conditions Treated with Methotrexate 10 mg Tablets
Rheumatoid arthritis: methotrexate reduces joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness associated with RA.
Psoriasis: methotrexate is effective at controlling abnormal skin cell proliferation.
Cancer treatments: leukemia, lymphoma, and certain solid tumors are commonly treated with methotrexate.
Autoimmune Diseases: methotrexate is prescribed for the management of stress from existing diseases, namely, lupus, sarcoidosis, and Crohn’s disease.
Potential Side Effects
The drug Methotrexate is very effective. Like other medications, there is the potential for side effects, which can be troubling for some patients.
Common side effects include, but are not limited to:
- Nausea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal upset
- Mouth sores
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Hair loss
- Dysfunction in liver tests
- Low white blood cell counts (risk of infections)
Potentially Serious Side Effects
Liver damage, lung damage, or bone marrow suppression may occur on rare occasions. They are more likely to happen if the medication is taken incorrectly or for long periods.
Tips for Taking Methotrexate
- Take the medication as instructed, typically once a week. Do not take daily or on a schedule you choose.
- Do not adjust the dose on your own. If you wish to change the dose, contact your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol and make sure to monitor liver function at regular intervals.
- After starting, take your medication with food to help with gastrointestinal upset.
- Do not take folic acid on the same day, unless directed to do so. Most of the time, you will be advised to take folate supplementation to decrease your side effects.
- Drink plenty of fluids. If you feel anything strange or unusual at all, tell your doctor.
