Folitrax 50 Injection
Manufacturer
Ipca Laboratories Ltd
Salt Composition
Methotrexate (50mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Folitrax 50 Injection is a medicine used for treatment of cancer in various parts of the body such as breasts, head, neck, lungs, blood, bone, lymph, and uterus.
Dosage Form
Injection
Introduction
Folitrax 50 Injection is given under the supervision of a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered. 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.
How it works
Folitrax 50 Injection is an anti-cancer medication. It works by blocking an enzyme (dihydrofolate reductase) involved in DNA synthesis in cancer cells. This slows the growth of cancer cells and eventually kills them.
Quick Tips
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. This will help lessen the side effects of this medicine. It may take 6 to 8 weeks for Folitrax 50 Injection to work. Keep taking the medication as prescribed. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase the risk of side effects.
Frequently asked questions
Can Folitrax 50 Injection cause mouth ulcers?
Yes, Folitrax 50 Injection may cause mouth ulcers and a sore mouth as side effects in some cases. Taking folic acid along with this medicine may help reduce the ulcers. Your doctor may also recommend reducing the dose to minimize the risk of ulcers.
Why do I have to take folic acid with Folitrax 50 Injection?
Folic acid is essential for the production of new cells in the body, and Folitrax 50 Injection can decrease folic acid levels. Taking folic acid with Folitrax 50 Injection may help alleviate common side effects such as mouth ulcers, hair loss, nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain, fatigue, anemia, and liver problems.
Why do I need to take regular blood tests while taking Folitrax 50 Injection?
Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor your response to Folitrax 50 Injection and detect potential side effects. Your doctor will check your liver function and blood counts (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets) regularly. Additional tests may be ordered based on the results.
Can Folitrax 50 Injection use make me more prone to infections?
Folitrax 50 Injection may weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to serious infections. Rare cases of serious lung infections have been reported. If you have an active infection, your doctor may recommend using Folitrax 50 Injection with caution or adjusting your treatment plan.
Can Folitrax 50 Injection affect fertility?
Yes, Folitrax 50 Injection may affect fertility in both males and females. It may cause a decrease in sperm count in males and menstrual disturbances in females. However, these effects are reversible and typically resolve once treatment is discontinued.
What to do if I am planning to become pregnant and my husband is taking Folitrax 50 Injection?
It is recommended to avoid pregnancy while your husband is taking Folitrax 50 Injection. Additionally, it is advised to avoid pregnancy for at least 3 months after treatment is discontinued, as it may increase the risk of serious fetal abnormalities.
