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Rheumatrex

Generic name: Methotrexate Tabletsmeth-oh-TREKS-ate ]
Brand names: Rheumatrex, Trexall
Drug classes: Antimetabolites, Antipsoriatics, Antirheumatics, Other immunosuppressants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 11, 2024.

Warning

For all uses of this medicine:
  • Very bad side effects like bone marrow problems, liver problems, lung problems, infections, and skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis) can happen with Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets). Some side effects may not go away and can be deadly. You must talk with the doctor about the risks of Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets).
  • This medicine may cause kidney problems in some patients. Talk with the doctor.
  • Regular blood work and other exams will need to be done to check for side effects. Follow what the doctor has told you.
  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems or extra fluid around your stomach area or lungs. The chance of side effects may be raised.
  • Very bad and sometimes deadly bone marrow problems and stomach or bowel problems have happened when Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets) was taken with NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. Talk with the doctor.
  • This medicine may raise your chance of lymphoma and other cancers.
  • Patients with cancer may be at greater risk of getting a bad and sometimes deadly health problem called tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). Talk with the doctor.
  • Tell your doctor if you get diarrhea or mouth or tongue sores or irritation. You may need to stop Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets). Severe and sometimes deadly bowel problems may happen.
  • Talk with your doctor if you are getting radiation. There may be more chance of harm to tissue and bone.
  • Not all methotrexate products are used to treat cancer. Talk with the doctor.
  • This medicine may cause harm to an unborn baby or loss of an unborn baby. A pregnancy test will be done before you start Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets) to show that you are NOT pregnant.
  • Women must use birth control while taking Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets) and for some time after the last dose. Ask your doctor how long to use birth control. If you get pregnant, call your doctor right away.
  • Men with a partner who may get pregnant must use birth control while taking Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets) and for some time after the last dose. Ask your doctor how long to use birth control. If your partner gets pregnant, call the doctor right away.
For all reasons other than cancer treatment:
  • Do not take if you are pregnant.
  • This medicine must only be used when other drugs cannot be used or have not worked. Talk with your doctor to be sure that the benefits of Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets) are more than the risks.

Uses of Rheumatrex:

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Rheumatrex?

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets).

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Rheumatrex?

For all uses of Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets):

Cancer treatment:

How is this medicine (Rheumatrex) best taken?

Use Rheumatrex (methotrexate tablets) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

What are some other side effects of Rheumatrex?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Rheumatrex?

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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