Methotrexate: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic and anti-cancer medicine. It is a prescription medicine used for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis and some cancers. In Pakistan it is available as tablets and injections, made by 3 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Methotrexate works

Methotrexate blocks an enzyme that cells need to use folic acid. Fast-dividing cells, such as cancer cells and overactive immune cells, are most affected. In arthritis and psoriasis, lower amounts damp down inflammation and slow skin cell overgrowth, with benefits usually building up over several weeks.

What is Methotrexate used for?

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Psoriasis
• Some cancers

Methotrexate is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and severe psoriasis, where it calms the overactive immune system and helps protect joints from damage. It is also used for some other inflammatory conditions, such as Crohn's disease. In much higher amounts, usually given in hospital, it is used to treat certain cancers, including some leukaemias, lymphomas and breast cancer.

Side effects of Methotrexate

Methotrexate can cause side effects, and regular monitoring helps pick them up early. Common ones include:

• Nausea
• Mouth ulcers or sore mouth
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Hair thinning
• Headache

Contact your doctor at once if you develop fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, unusual bruising or bleeding, a new cough or breathlessness, yellow skin or eyes, or severe diarrhoea or vomiting.

Precautions and warnings

• For arthritis and psoriasis, Methotrexate is taken once a week on the same day, never daily; taking it every day by mistake can cause serious harm.
• Regular blood tests to check your blood count, liver and kidneys are essential, and your doctor will usually also prescribe folic acid.
• It can harm an unborn baby, so pregnancy must be avoided; discuss contraception for both partners with your doctor, and do not breastfeed while taking it.
• Keep alcohol to a minimum or avoid it, and do not take trimethoprim, co-trimoxazole or anti-inflammatory painkillers without checking with your doctor.
• Avoid live vaccines while on treatment, and report any infection promptly.

Frequently asked questions about Methotrexate

What is the price of Methotrexate in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Methotrexate products currently in stock range from Rs 306 to Rs 1,377 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Pharmatrexate 10mg Tablet at Rs 306. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Methotrexate are available in Pakistan?

Methotrexate is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Cytotrexate (Lahore Chemical & Pharmaceutical Works Ltd), Pharmatrexate (Pharmedic) and Imutrex (Crystolite Pharmaceuticals).

Do I need a prescription for Methotrexate?

Yes. Methotrexate is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.

Can Methotrexate be used during pregnancy?

It can harm an unborn baby, so pregnancy must be avoided; discuss contraception for both partners with your doctor, and do not breastfeed while taking it.

Are all Methotrexate brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Methotrexate in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Methotrexate brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 5 products containing Methotrexate from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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