Folitrax 25 Injection
Manufacturer
Ipca Laboratories Ltd
Salt Composition
Methotrexate (25mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Folitrax 25 Injection is a medicine used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, severe forms of psoriasis, various cancers, and Crohn's disease.
Dosage Form
Injection
Introduction
Folitrax 25 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 25 Injection. Please consult your doctor.
Breastfeeding Warning
Folitrax 25 Injection is unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Data suggests that the drug may cause toxicity to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Folitrax 25 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 25 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 25 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 25 Injection cause mouth ulcers?
Yes, Folitrax 25 Injection may cause a sore mouth and mouth ulcers in some patients. Taking folic acid alongside this medication might help reduce the likelihood of these side effects. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss potential dose adjustments that could further minimize ulcers.
Why am I required to take folic acid with Folitrax 25 Injection?
Folic acid is essential for creating new cells in the body and Folitrax 25 Injection decreases folic acid levels. Taking folic acid alongside this medication may help mitigate some common side effects, such as mouth ulcers, hair loss, nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain, fatigue, anemia, and liver problems.
Why do I need regular blood tests while taking Folitrax 25 Injection?
Regular blood tests will enable your doctor to evaluate your response to Folitrax 25 Injection and monitor for side effects. These tests are used to check for liver function changes and assess blood cell counts (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets). Your healthcare provider may order additional tests based on the initial results.
Can Folitrax 25 Injection increase my risk of infections?
Folitrax 25 Injection can temporarily suppress your immune system activity. This increased susceptibility to infection has been reported in some patients, and severe infections have occurred in a few cases. If you already have an active infection, using Folitrax 25 Injection requires caution. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting or continuing this medication if you have any underlying health conditions.
Can Folitrax 25 Injection affect fertility?
Yes, Folitrax 25 Injection can impact both male and female fertility. It may reduce sperm count in males and cause menstrual irregularities in females. These effects are reversible, and they will resolve once the therapy is stopped.
What should I do if I'm planning to become pregnant while my husband is taking Folitrax 25 Injection?
Avoid pregnancy until your husband discontinues Folitrax 25 Injection and consider a minimum waiting period of three months after the therapy has been stopped. This precaution will significantly reduce the risk of possible fetal abnormalities.
