Side effects

The side effects depend on the dosage and the duration of use of Methotrexate (e.g. LantarelMetexMTX). They may occur during the entire period of use, but are most common in the first six months. Only the frequently and occasionally occurring side effects are listed here; rare, very rare or isolated side effects are not listed: Common side effects: Occasional side effects: While using Methotrexate you should visit your doctor regularly (at least monthly for the first 6 months, then at least quarterly) for a control examination.

Loss of appetite,
Nausea,
Vomiting,
Stomach ache,
Diarrhea,
Inflammations and ulcers in the mouth and throat area,
Increase in liver values (GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase
Disorders of blood cell formation with a pathological reduction of red and white blood cells and platelets,
Allergic inflammation of the pulmonary scaffold and pulmonary alveoli (pneumonitis, alveolitis),
Skin redness,
Skin rash,
Itching,
Headache,
Tiredness,
Dizziness

Interactions

Vaccinations with live vaccines should not be performed while taking Methotrexate. Alcohol consumption should be avoided. If you are taking other drugs that damage the liver (e.g. Leflunomide, Azathioprin® , Sulfasalazine, Retinoids), regular checks must be carried out by your doctor.

This also applies to the simultaneous intake of sulfonamides, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, chloramphenicol, pyrimethamine. An increased toxicity of methotrexate has been observed in the presence of folic acid deficiency or simultaneous intake of drugs that cause folic acid deficiency (e.g. sulfonamides, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole). Indirect dose increases are caused by penicillins, salicylates, phenytoin, barbiturates, tranquilizers, oral contraceptives, tetracyclines, amidopyrin derivatives, sulfonamides and p-aminobenzoic acid, p-aminohippuric acid, probenecide, NSAIDs.

Contraindications – When should Methotrexate not be taken?

Methotrexate must not be taken with: Women of childbearing age and men who take Methotrexate must use reliable contraception. Even if the male partner is being treated, conception should be avoided during therapy with methotrexate and for three months after discontinuing methotrexate.

Known hypersensitivity to methotrexate
Renal dysfunction
Liver damage
Diseases of the haematopoietic system
Increased alcohol consumption
Infections
Ulcers in the stomach – intestine area (stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer, ventriculopathy)
Pregnancy and lactation