Folitrax 20 Mg/ml Inj 1 Ml

FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ 1 ML

FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ 1 ML, manufactured by IPCA LABORATORIES LTD., is a specialized medication administered via injection. Its common name is Methotrexate.

Composition

The active ingredient in FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ 1 ML is Methotrexate at a concentration of 20 mg/ml. Methotrexate is classified as an antimetabolite and an immunosuppressant.

Uses

FOLITRAX injection is prescribed for various medical conditions due to its ability to suppress the immune system and inhibit cell growth. It is used in the treatment of:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Particularly severe active rheumatoid arthritis and polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, especially when other treatments have been ineffective. It helps reduce inflammation, pain, stiffness, and improves joint function, slowing disease progression.
• Psoriasis: For severe forms of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis that have not responded to other therapies. It works by slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells.
• Cancer: Used alone or in combination with other medicines for various cancers, including acute leukemias, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, mycosis fungoides (a type of blood cancer), choriocarcinoma, breast cancer, lung cancer, head and neck cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, testicular cancer, and osteosarcoma.

Dosage and Administration

FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ 1 ML is an injectable medicine that should only be administered by a doctor or nurse. Self-administration is strictly prohibited. The dosage and frequency are highly individualized, depending on the condition being treated, patient weight, and medical history. For autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, it is typically given once weekly. Regular blood tests are essential to monitor liver and kidney function during treatment.

Side Effects

Like many medications, FOLITRAX can cause side effects, which may vary in intensity depending on the dose and duration of treatment.

• Common Side Effects: Nausea or vomiting, mouth sores or ulcers (ulcerative stomatitis), fatigue or weakness, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, mild hair thinning, skin rash or dryness, and abdominal pain or discomfort. Folic acid supplements may be prescribed to help reduce some of these side effects.
• Serious Side Effects: Low blood cell counts (increasing susceptibility to infections), increased liver enzymes, liver or kidney damage (especially with high doses or prolonged use), and unusual bleeding or bruising.

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: FOLITRAX is extremely unsafe during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects and is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers as components can pass into breast milk. Effective contraceptive measures should be used during and for at least six months after treatment.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in individuals with pre-existing liver, kidney, or blood disorders, low levels of white blood cells and platelets, immunodeficiency syndromes, mouth ulcers, or ulcers in the stomach/intestine.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol entirely while taking FOLITRAX due to an increased risk of liver damage.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, NSAIDs, antibiotics, antiepileptics, and folic acid supplements, as interactions can occur. Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
• Driving: May cause drowsiness or tiredness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.

Storage

Proper storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of FOLITRAX. Store at room temperature (15°C to 25°C or below 30°C) in its original packaging, protected from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.

FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ, containing Methotrexate, is a medication used to treat various conditions, including autoimmune diseases and certain types of cancer. Here are some frequently asked questions about this medicine:

What is FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ used for?

FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ (Methotrexate) is primarily used to treat active rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and severe psoriasis that has not responded to other treatments. It is also used in the management of various cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, head and neck cancer, cervical cancer, bladder cancer, ovarian cancer, testicular cancer, bone cancer, mycosis fungoides, and advanced-stage non-Hodgkin lymphomas, as well as Crohn's disease.

How does FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ work?

FOLITRAX (Methotrexate) works as an antimetabolite and immunosuppressant. In autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, it reduces inflammation and pain by interfering with the immune system processes that cause inflammation and by suppressing the overactive immune response that leads to rapid skin cell growth. In cancer, it works by interfering with DNA synthesis, thereby stopping or slowing the growth of cancer cells by blocking a specific enzyme (dihydrofolate reductase) needed for new cell creation.

What is the usual dosage of FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ?

The dosage of FOLITRAX is highly individualized and determined by a healthcare professional based on the condition being treated and the patient's response. For conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, it is typically administered once a week. The usual starting dose for adults ranges from 7.5 mg to 25 mg once a week, and it can be gradually increased up to 30 mg per week for psoriasis, depending on response and tolerability. It is given as an injection, usually under the skin (subcutaneously) in the upper thigh or abdomen, or sometimes intramuscularly or intravenously.

What are the possible side effects of FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ?

Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, unusual fatigue, dizziness, headache, mouth sores (stomatitis), abdominal pain, and hair loss. More serious, though less common, side effects can include lowered resistance to infections, problems with blood counts (low white blood cells, platelets), liver damage, kidney damage, lung problems, and severe skin reactions. Taking folic acid as advised by your doctor can help reduce some side effects like mouth ulcers and nausea.

Is FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ is considered unsafe during pregnancy as it can cause serious birth defects and harm the unborn baby. Women of childbearing age should use reliable contraception during treatment and for at least six months after the last dose. It is also unsafe during breastfeeding, as the medication can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the nursing infant. Breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment and for at least one week after the last dose.

Can FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ be taken with other medications?

FOLITRAX can interact with many other medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Notably, Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, and salicylates (e.g., aspirin) can increase methotrexate concentrations in the blood, leading to a higher risk of toxicity. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially medicines for diabetes, painkillers, diuretics, antibiotics, antiepileptic medicines, and immunosuppressants.

What precautions should be taken while using FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ?

Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Inform your doctor if you have liver, kidney, or bone marrow disease, stomach or intestinal problems (like ulcers), lung disease, or an immunodeficiency syndrome. This medicine can lower your ability to fight infections; therefore, use with caution if you have an active infection and report any signs of infection (sore throat, fever, chills) immediately. Live vaccines should generally be avoided while on this medication. FOLITRAX may cause dizziness or tiredness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ is missed?

If you miss a dose of FOLITRAX, take it as soon as you remember, but only if it's on the day you typically take it or the day after. For example, if you usually take it on a Tuesday, you can take it on Wednesday or Thursday. Then, take your next dose as scheduled on the usual day. If it's three or more days late, skip the missed dose entirely and continue with your next scheduled dose. Never take a double dose to compensate for a missed one. Always consult your doctor or nurse immediately if you miss a dose.

How should FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ be stored?

FOLITRAX 20 MG/ML INJ should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C (or between 10°C to 25°C). It should not be frozen. Keep the medication out of the reach and sight of children. Any expired or unused medication should be disposed of properly according to pharmacist instructions.