Oncotrex 7.5 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET

ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET is a potent medication primarily used in the treatment of various cancers and severe autoimmune diseases. It is manufactured by SUN PHARMACEUTICAL IND.LTD.

• Name

  • Brand Name: ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET
  • Common Name (Active Ingredient): Methotrexate

• Composition Each tablet contains 7.5 mg of Methotrexate.

• Uses ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET is prescribed for a range of conditions due to its ability to suppress the immune system and slow cell growth:

  • Cancers: Including breast, lung, bone, uterine, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, mycosis fungoides, and head and neck cancers.
  • Autoimmune Conditions: Severe rheumatoid arthritis (including polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis), severe psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease that have not responded well to other treatments.

• Dosage and Administration

  • ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET is typically taken once a week.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dose or discontinue the medicine without consulting your doctor.
  • Folic acid may be prescribed by your doctor to help reduce some side effects, usually taken on a different day than Methotrexate.

• Side Effects Common side effects may include:

  • Ulcerative stomatitis (mouth sores)
  • Hair loss or thinning
  • Low blood cell counts, which can increase susceptibility to infections and cause fatigue
  • Elevated liver enzymes
  • Nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea
  • Headache and dizziness
  • Loss of appetite

  Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious side effects such as:

  • Persistent cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, which could indicate lung problems.
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe right upper belly pain, signaling liver injury.
  • Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet, or changes in urination, suggesting kidney problems.
  • High fever, chills, or persistent sore throat, which may indicate a serious infection.
  • Severe skin reactions like blistering or peeling.
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding, blood in urine, or vomiting blood.

• Precautions

  • Contraindications: Do not take ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET if you are allergic to methotrexate, pregnant, breastfeeding, or have severe liver or kidney disease, severe bone marrow disorders, active infections, or immunodeficiency conditions.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: This medicine is contraindicated during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus, and it is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Effective contraception must be used during treatment and for at least 6 months after stopping the medication.
  • Alcohol: Avoid or significantly limit alcohol consumption due to an increased risk of liver damage.
  • Sun Sensitivity: Methotrexate can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid sunlamps or tanning beds.
  • Monitoring: Regular blood tests to check blood cell counts, liver function, and kidney function are essential during treatment.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking, as Methotrexate can interact with various drugs.
  • Driving: This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these effects.

• Storage Store ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of sight and reach of children. Always check the expiry date before use.

ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET, containing Methotrexate, is a medication primarily used to treat certain cancers and severe autoimmune conditions. It works by interfering with cell growth and suppressing the immune system. Due to its potent effects, it requires careful administration and monitoring.

What is ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET used for?

ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET (Methotrexate) is prescribed for a variety of conditions. It is used to treat certain cancers, including acute lymphoblastic leukemia, osteosarcoma, breast cancer, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Additionally, it is used to manage severe autoimmune and inflammatory conditions such as active rheumatoid arthritis (including polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis), severe psoriasis, severe psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease.

How does ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET work?

ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET contains Methotrexate, an antimetabolite and anti-cancer medication. In cancer treatment, it works by inhibiting dihydrofolic acid reductase, which interferes with DNA synthesis, repair, and cell proliferation, thereby hindering the growth and multiplication of cancer cells. For autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, it functions as an immunosuppressant, suppressing the overactive immune system to reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

What is the usual dosage for ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET?

For autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET is typically taken once a week. The starting dose for these conditions is often 7.5 mg to 15 mg weekly, which may be increased to a maximum of 25 mg weekly as directed by a doctor. It is crucial to strictly follow your doctor's instructions, as this medicine is NEVER taken daily for non-cancer conditions; taking it more frequently can lead to serious side effects, including death.

What are the possible side effects of ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET?

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, unusual fatigue, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, stomach upset, mouth ulcers/sores, hair loss, fever, chills, muscle pain, skin redness, and low blood cell counts (leukopenia). More serious side effects can involve renal failure, liver damage (e.g., elevated liver enzymes, fibrosis, cirrhosis), lung problems (such as interstitial pneumonia, cough, shortness of breath), myelosuppression (bone marrow suppression), increased risk of infection, unusual bleeding or bruising, black/tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, seizures, confusion, tingling or numbness, and a potential increase in the risk for other cancers.

Is ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET is generally not recommended and is considered unsafe during pregnancy for non-cancer conditions due to the significant risk of birth defects and fetal death. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for a specified period (e.g., 6 months) after stopping the medication. Breastfeeding: This medication is not recommended for use while breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk. Although some studies indicate low levels in milk with low weekly doses (25 mg or less) and suggest withholding breastfeeding for 24 hours, the general advice is to avoid it.

Can ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET can interact with various medications, potentially increasing its blood levels and the risk of side effects. It should be used with caution or is contraindicated with:

• Alcohol: Increases the risk of liver-related side effects.
• NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, ketorolac): Can increase methotrexate's effects and toxicity.
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (e.g., Lansoprazole, Pantoprazole): May increase methotrexate levels in the blood.
• Certain antibiotics (e.g., neomycin, penicillin) and antifolate drugs (e.g., dapsone, pyrimethamine): Can interfere with methotrexate's action.
• Live vaccines: Should be avoided during and after treatment.
• Folic acid supplements: While sometimes prescribed to reduce methotrexate side effects in autoimmune conditions, they can reduce its effectiveness in treating cancer and should only be taken if specifically advised by your doctor.

Always inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to prevent potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET?

Several precautions are necessary:

• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid or limit alcohol due to an increased risk of liver damage.
• Vaccinations: Do not receive live vaccines during or after treatment without consulting your doctor.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests to monitor blood counts, liver function, and kidney function are crucial during treatment.
• Pre-existing conditions: Use with caution if you have liver disease, kidney disease, blood disorders, immunodeficiency, lung disorders, stomach ulcers, or stomatitis.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine can cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Sun Sensitivity: It can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use protective clothing, sunscreen, and avoid sunlamps or tanning beds.
• Hydration: Ensure adequate fluid intake unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
• Surgery: Inform your doctor or dentist about your medication before any surgery.
• Handling: Due to its cytotoxic nature, special handling precautions may be required for the medication and related waste products.

What happens if a dose of ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET be stored?

ONCOTREX 7.5 MG TABLET should be stored at room temperature, typically below 25°C or 30°C. Keep the tablets in their original closed container, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Always ensure the medicine is kept out of the reach and sight of children, and check the expiry date before use.