Methotrexate

Methotrexate can sometimes cause serious lung damage that makes it necessary to limit the treatment. If you experience a dry cough, fever, or breathing difficulties while taking methotrexate, be sure to tell your doctor right away.

During and immediately after treatment with methotrexate, fertility may be impaired. Men may have an abnormally low sperm count; women may have menstrual irregularities.

People on high doses of methotrexate may develop a brain condition signaled by confusion, partial paralysis, seizures, or coma.

Why should Methotrexate not be prescribed?

Do not take this medication if you are sensitive to it or it has given you an allergic reaction.

Do not take this medication if you are pregnant.

Methotrexate treatment is not suitable for you if you suffer from psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis and also have one of the following conditions:

Abnormal blood cell count
Alcoholic liver disease or other chronic liver disease
Alcoholism
Anemia
Immune-system deficiency

Special warnings about Methotrexate

Before you start taking methotrexate, your doctor will do a chest X-ray plus blood tests to determine your blood cell counts, liver enzyme levels, and the efficiency of your kidney function. While you are taking methotrexate, the blood tests will be repeated at regular intervals; if you develop a cough or chest pain, the chest X-ray will be repeated.

If you are being treated for psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis, your doctor will test your liver function at regular intervals. You should avoid alcoholic beverages while taking this drug.

You may develop an opportunistic infection--one that takes advantage of your altered body chemistry--while you are taking methotrexate. Before receiving an immunization or vaccination, be sure to inform health care workers that you are taking this drug.

Older or physically debilitated people are particularly vulnerable to toxic effects from methotrexate. Your doctor will prescribe methotrexate with great caution if you have any of the following:

Active infection
Liver disease
Peptic ulcer
Ulcerative colitis