Description

Folitrax-10 – Strip of 10 Tablets

Folitrax-10 is a medication that contains Methotrexate, a potent drug used to treat a variety of conditions, primarily autoimmune diseases and certain types of cancer.

Key Information:

• Active Ingredient: Methotrexate (10 mg) per tablet.
• Quantity: Strip of 10 tablets.

Common Uses:

Folitrax-10 (Methotrexate) is prescribed for the treatment of several conditions, most commonly:

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
   • Methotrexate is often the first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joints. It works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation, thereby decreasing pain, swelling, and preventing joint damage.
2. Psoriasis:
   • Methotrexate is used to treat severe psoriasis, especially when topical treatments or other therapies are ineffective. It helps reduce the rapid skin cell turnover associated with psoriasis.
3. Certain Types of Cancer:
   • Folitrax-10 is used in the treatment of cancers such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia, breast cancer, and head and neck cancers. In cancer treatment, methotrexate works as a chemotherapy drug by interfering with the growth of cancer cells.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):
   • It is also used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis when other treatments have failed.
5. Ectopic Pregnancy:
   • Methotrexate can be used in the medical management of ectopic pregnancy, where the pregnancy implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes.
6. Autoimmune Diseases:
   • Methotrexate may be used to treat other autoimmune disorders like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and juvenile arthritis, due to its immunosuppressive properties.

Mechanism of Action:

• Methotrexate works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). This enzyme is involved in the production of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), which are essential for cell division and replication. By inhibiting DHFR, methotrexate prevents the rapid division of cells, which is useful in treating cancer and suppressing the overactive immune response in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
• In cancer therapy, methotrexate interferes with the ability of cancer cells to divide and multiply, which helps reduce tumor size.
• In autoimmune diseases, it modulates the immune system to reduce inflammation and damage to healthy tissues.

Dosage:

• The typical dosage of Folitrax-10 (Methotrexate) varies depending on the condition being treated.
  • For rheumatoid arthritis, the usual starting dose is 7.5 mg to 15 mg once a week. The dose may be gradually increased based on the response, but it is typically once a week rather than a daily medication.
  • For psoriasis, a similar weekly dosing regimen is followed.
  • Cancer treatment involves much higher doses, and these are typically given in cycles as part of chemotherapy regimens.
• Important: Methotrexate is usually taken once a week, not daily, as part of its prescribed regimen. The exact dose and frequency should always be determined by the healthcare provider based on the specific condition being treated.

Side Effects:

Methotrexate can cause a range of side effects, and its use requires careful monitoring. Some common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, loss of appetite.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Dizziness or headache.
• Hair loss (temporary, especially in cancer treatment).
• Elevated liver enzymes: Regular liver function tests are important.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention):

• Liver toxicity: Symptoms include yellowing of the skin/eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or unusual tiredness. Liver function should be monitored regularly.
• Bone marrow suppression: This can lead to low blood cell counts, increasing the risk of infections, bleeding, and anemia. Symptoms include frequent infections, easy bruising, or fatigue.
• Pulmonary toxicity: Difficulty breathing, cough, or chest pain could indicate lung problems related to methotrexate use.
• Severe gastrointestinal problems: Such as persistent nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, which could indicate ulceration or bleeding.
• Severe allergic reactions: Rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing (though rare).
• Kidney damage: Symptoms include swelling in the legs or ankles, changes in urination, or unexplained weight gain.

Precautions:

• Liver Function: Methotrexate can be toxic to the liver, so it should be used with caution in people with pre-existing liver conditions (such as hepatitis or cirrhosis). Regular liver function tests are required during treatment.
• Kidney Function: Methotrexate can affect kidney function, particularly at higher doses. Kidney function should be monitored regularly.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Methotrexate is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its teratogenic (harmful to the fetus) effects. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking this drug.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption while on methotrexate as it can increase the risk of liver damage.
• Vaccinations: Live vaccines should be avoided while taking methotrexate, as it suppresses the immune system. Talk to your healthcare provider before receiving any vaccines.

Interactions:

Methotrexate can interact with a variety of other medications, including:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can increase the risk of toxicity, particularly to the kidneys and stomach.
• Antibiotics like penicillin and sulfonamides, which may interfere with methotrexate’s clearance from the body.
• Other immunosuppressive drugs: Careful monitoring is required when combining methotrexate with other immunosuppressants to avoid excessive immune system suppression.

Monitoring:

Regular monitoring is crucial while on Folitrax-10 (Methotrexate). This includes:

• Blood tests to monitor liver function, kidney function, and blood cell counts.
• Chest X-rays and lung function tests if pulmonary toxicity is suspected.
• Periodic assessment of bone marrow function to check for anemia, infections, or bleeding risks.