What is this medication for?
Methotrexate belongs to the class of medications called disease modifying antirheumatic drugs
(DMARDs). It is used to treat rheumatoid
arthritis (including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) and psoriasis (a chronic skin disorder that
produces patchy scales). It works by reducing the inflammation associated with
rheumatoid arthritis and by attacking the rapidly-dividing cells that are
involved in causing psoriasis.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Trexall® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Rheumatoid arthritis:
The usual adult dose of methotrexate is 7.5 mg
taken as one dose once weekly by mouth or 2.5 mg taken every 12 hours for
3 doses once weekly. For juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, the dose depends on
the child's body size. Doses are sometimes adjusted gradually according to
response but don't usually exceed 20 mg weekly. The benefits of treatment
usually appear about three to six weeks after starting the medication.
Psoriasis: The
usual adult starting dose of methotrexate is 10 mg to 25 mg per week in one dose (tablet or injection) or
2.5 mg (tablet) taken every 12 hours for 3 doses once weekly. Doses
can be adjusted gradually but don't usually exceed 30 mg weekly.
This medication may be taken with or without food to
minimize nausea. If you feel unwell or nauseated after taking methotrexate, do
not stop taking the medication without first talking with your doctor. Your
doctor or pharmacist may be able to help you with ideas to reduce the nausea
associated with taking this medication.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from
light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Methotrexate should
not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to methotrexate or any ingredients of the medication
- is breast-feeding
- has liver disease
- is or may become pregnant
- suffers from alcoholism