METHOTREXATE, 2.5MG/ML, INJECTABLE

Common uses

This medication is typically used for rheumatoid arthritis or for psoriasis. It may also have other uses. It requires a few weeks to take effect.

How to use this medication

This drug can, on occasion, be administered in a hospital or clinic setting by a doctor or a nurse, but can also be used at home. If you are taking this drug at home, make sure that the health care facility overseeing your treatment has provided you with all the necessary information regarding its administration. It is very important that you comply with the directions for use to fully benefit from the effects of this drug and to limit any adverse reactions.

It is recommended to drink plenty of water while using this medication. If you drink alcohol, a moderate consumption is recommended. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor to find out exactly how much alcohol you can drink.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may cause mouth irritation and sores;
• it may decrease your appetite;
• it may cause diarrhea;
• it may cause nausea and vomiting;
• it may make your skin more sensitive to the sun or sun lamps -- wear sunscreen and avoid exposure to sunlight as much as possible.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

Respect the provided storage instructions for this product. If you have any questions, speak to the health care professionals who are overseeing your treatment.

Additional information

Although the drugs you are taking are intended to help you, they can be harmful to those around you. Make sure that a professional who oversees your treatment has given you all the necessary precautions.

Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential and men who are taking the medication should use an effective contraceptive method during treatment and for several months after the end of it. Ask your healthcare professional for details.

Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant, contact your family doctor.

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

Blood donation is usually refused during this treatment.

This information handout only provides an overview of your treatment. Given the complex nature of your treatment, you will receive information that is much more comprehensive and that deals specifically with your needs. Make sure that you have all the relevant information regarding your medication.

General information

It is important to tell the health professionals you consult:

• if you have a history of any other medical condition, whether you smoke and for women, if you are or want to become pregnant or breastfeeding;
• if you have allergies to any medications or any other allergies (e.g. to food, latex, etc.);
• all medications you are taking, prescription and non-prescription, including vitamins and natural products and supplements.