Folitrax-15 Injection
Manufacturer
Ipca Laboratories Ltd
Salt Composition
Methotrexate (15mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Folitrax 15 Injection is a medicine used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, severe forms of psoriasis, various cancers, and Crohn's disease.
Dosage Form
Injection
Introduction
Folitrax 15 Injection is given under the supervision of a doctor or a nurse and should not be self-administered. It may be used by itself or in combination with other medicines. Your doctor will decide what dose is necessary and how often you need to take it. This will depend on what you are being treated for and may change from time to time. You should take it exactly as your doctor has advised. Taking it in the wrong way or taking too much can cause very serious side effects. It may take several weeks or months for you to see or feel the benefits but do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to. You should avoid drinking alcohol as it may increase your risk of liver damage.
Directions for Use
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self-administer.
Safety Information
Side Effects
abdominal pain indigestion loss of appetite nausea vomiting tiredness hair loss low blood platelets
Alcohol Warning
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Folitrax 15 Injection. Please consult your doctor.
Breastfeeding Warning
Folitrax 15 Injection is unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Data suggests that the drug may cause toxicity to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Folitrax 15 Injection is highly unsafe to use during pregnancy. Seek your doctor's advice as studies on pregnant women and animals have shown significant harmful effects to the developing baby.
Interacting Medicines
Rotavirus vaccine (live attenuated, oral) Live Attenuated Varicella-Zoster Virus Measles Vaccine (Live) Rubella vaccine (Live)
How it works
Folitrax 15 Injection is an immunosuppressant. In rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease, it works by decreasing the activity of the body's immune system. This decreases swelling, reduces pain and stiffness, and improves function. In psoriasis, it works by slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells. In cancer, it inhibits cancer cells from multiplying by blocking a special enzyme that is needed to make new cells.
Quick Tips
It is given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously) usually in the upper thigh or the abdomen. Take it once a week on the same day every week. Drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated while taking this medication. Always take folic acid as advised by your doctor. It may take 6 to 8 weeks for Folitrax 15 Injection to work. Keep taking the medication as prescribed. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine. It can be harmful to an unborn baby. Avoid pregnancy for at least 6 months after your last dose.
Frequently asked questions
Can Folitrax 15 Injection cause mouth ulcers?
Yes, Folitrax 15 Injection may cause a sore mouth and mouth ulcers in some patients. Combining folic acid with this medicine may help reduce the frequency of these side effects.
Why do I need to take folic acid with Folitrax 15 Injection?
Folic acid is essential for cell growth and reproduction, and Folitrax 15 Injection can lower its levels in the body. Folic acid supplementation may help reduce some common side effects of Folitrax 15 Injection such as mouth ulcers, hair loss, nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain, fatigue, anemia and liver problems.
Why do I need to have regular blood tests while taking Folitrax 15 Injection?
Regular blood tests help your doctor evaluate your response to Folitrax 15 Injection and monitor for potential side effects. These tests will check your liver function, red blood cell count, platelet count, and other indicators of your overall health.
Can Folitrax 15 Injection make me more prone to infections?
Folitrax 15 Injection may suppress the activity of your immune system, potentially increasing your risk of infection. There have been rare reports indicating a potential for serious lung infections with its use. If you already have an active infection, careful consideration is required when starting Folitrax 15 Injection.
Can Folitrax 15 Injection affect fertility?
Yes, Folitrax 15 Injection may negatively impact both male and female fertility. It can lead to a decrease in sperm count in men and menstrual irregularities in women. These effects are reversible after treatment discontinuation.
What should I do if I'm planning to become pregnant while my husband is taking Folitrax 15 Injection?
It is strongly advised to avoid pregnancy until your husband has completed the course of Folitrax 15 Injection. It is also advisable to wait for at least three months after therapy cessation before attempting pregnancy. This precaution is crucial as Folitrax 15 Injection can increase the risk of fetal abnormalities.
