Medication information

Methotrexate Subcutaneous 15mg/0.3mL inj.syringe

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.

Instructions

This product must be injected under the skin (subcutaneously), according to the technique you were shown. Be sure to choose a different injection site each time.

Dispose of used syringes and needles safely. Your pharmacist can tell you the best way to do this.

This medication is typically used only once a week. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed.

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

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 UV rays (e.g., sunlight, tanning lamps) - avoid exposure to UV rays as much as possible and protect yourself when out in the sun.

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 health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

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 health care 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 notes

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

  • Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
  • If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
  • If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
  • The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.


It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.