Oncotrex 5 Tablet
Manufacturer
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
Salt Composition
Methotrexate (5mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Oncotrex 5 Tablet 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. It is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, severe and uncontrolled psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Oncotrex 5 Tablet may be used alone or in combination with other medicines. You should take it exactly as your doctor has advised. Taking too much of it can cause 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 consumption of alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase your risk of liver damage. The most common side effects of this medicine are ulcerative stomatitis, hairloss, low blood cell count, increased liver enzymes, nausea, and abdominal distress. Your doctor may advise you to take folic acid to reduce some of these. If they do not go away or get worse, tell your doctor. There may be ways of preventing or reducing these effects. This medicine may lower your ability to fight infections and lead to problems with your blood, liver, or kidneys. Your doctor may perform several tests such as blood tests, X-rays, and physical examinations both before and during treatment with this medicine to check for these.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Oncotrex 5 Tablet may be taken with or without food but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
How it works
Oncotrex 5 Tablet inhibits enzymes (dihydrofolate reductase), prevents cell division and leads to anti-inflammatory actions. Oncotrex 5 Tablet kills cancer cells by preventing them from making DNA. Oncotrex 5 Tablet can help control psoriasis by retarding the production of skin cells and suppressing inflammation. Oncotrex 5 Tablet may treat rheumatoid arthritis by suppressing the immune system, preventing it from attacking the body's cells. This helps reduce the inflammation that causes swollen and stiff joints in rheumatoid arthritis or damage to bowel in Crohn's disease.
Quick Tips
Drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated while taking this medication. Take folic acid if advised by your doctor. This will help lessen the side effects of this medicine. It may take from weeks to months for Oncotrex 5 Tablet to work. Keep taking the medication as prescribed. Your doctor may get regular blood test done to monitor your kidney function, liver function and level of blood cells in your blood. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase the risk of side effects. It can be harmful to an unborn baby. Avoid pregnancy for at least 6 months after your last dose.
Related Medicines
Folitrax-5 Tablet
Neotrexate 5mg Tablet
Nidtrex 5mg Tablet
Psorwin 5mg Tablet
Methotin 5mg Tablet
Methosis 5mg Tablet
Beltrax 5mg Tablet
Imusis 5mg Tablet
Leetrexate 5mg Tablet
Trexglo 5mg Tablet
Frequently asked questions
Can Oncotrex 5 Tablet cause mouth ulcers?
Yes, Oncotrex 5 Tablet 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 this side effect.
Why do I have to take folic acid with Oncotrex 5 Tablet?
Folic acid is essential for the production of new cells in the body, and Oncotrex 5 Tablet can decrease folic acid levels. Taking folic acid with Oncotrex 5 Tablet may help reduce 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 Oncotrex 5 Tablet?
Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor your response to Oncotrex 5 Tablet and detect any potential side effects. Your doctor will check your liver function, blood counts (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets), and may order additional tests based on the results.
Can Oncotrex 5 Tablet use make me more prone to infections?
Oncotrex 5 Tablet may weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to serious infections. There have been rare reports of serious lung infections associated with its use. If you have an active infection, your doctor may advise caution or adjust your treatment plan.
Can Oncotrex 5 Tablet affect fertility?
Yes, Oncotrex 5 Tablet may affect fertility in both males and females. It may cause decreased sperm count in males and menstrual disturbances in females. However, these effects are typically reversible and resolve once treatment is discontinued.
What to do if I am planning to become pregnant and my husband is taking Oncotrex 5 Tablet?
It is recommended to avoid pregnancy while your husband is taking Oncotrex 5 Tablet. Additionally, it is advised to wait at least 3 months after treatment discontinuation before attempting to conceive, as it may increase the risk of serious fetal abnormalities.
