Folitrax 20 Tablet

By Folitrax

Rx

4 Tablet in a Strip

Composition icon

Composition

Methotrexate(20mg)

Manufacturer - Ipca Laboratories Ltd icon

Manufacturer - Ipca Laboratories Ltd

142 AB, Kandivli Industrial Estate, Kandivli (West), Mumbai - 400 067, Maharashtra

Expires on or after icon

Expires on or after

April, 2027

About Folitrax 20 Tablet

Folitrax 20 Tablet is a medication used to treat various types of cancer affecting areas like the breasts, head, neck, lungs, blood, bone, lymph nodes, and uterus. Additionally, it is prescribed for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, severe psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease. This medicine can be taken alone or in combination with other medications, following your doctor's instructions carefully. It may take some time before you notice improvement, so do not stop taking it abruptly without consulting your doctor. Alcohol consumption should be avoided while on this medication as it can increase the risk of liver damage.

The active ingredient in Folitrax 20 Tablet, Methotrexate, belongs to the group of medicines known as antimetabolites. It works by interfering with the immune system processes that cause inflammation in joint tissues, helping to reduce pain, inflammation, and prevent joint damage over time. For cancer treatment, Methotrexate inhibits the growth of cancer cells, aiding in the management of various types of cancer. In the case of psoriasis, it works by regulating the overactive immune system responsible for the condition.

Common side effects of Folitrax 20 Tablet may include ulcerative stomatitis, hair loss, low blood cell count, increased liver enzymes, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. Your healthcare provider might suggest taking folic acid to alleviate some of these side effects. It is important to inform your doctor if these side effects persist or worsen. This medication can lower your body's ability to fight infections and may impact blood, liver, or kidney function, necessitating regular monitoring through tests like blood tests and X-rays.

Before starting Folitrax 20 Tablet, inform your doctor about any existing stomach, liver, or kidney issues, as well as any ongoing medications, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements. Due to potential interactions with other drugs, full disclosure of your medication regimen is crucial. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid using this medicine as it may harm the baby. Patients with lung disorders, blood disorders, or gastric issues should approach treatment with caution.

Overall, taking Folitrax 20 Tablet as directed by your healthcare provider is essential to benefit from its therapeutic effects while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. Regular monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and open communication with your healthcare team are key to a safe and effective treatment journey.


Benefits

Folitrax 20 Tablet offers numerous benefits in various medical conditions. In the treatment of cancer, Folitrax 20 Tablet works by slowing down the growth of cancer cells in the body, making it effective against acute leukemias, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and solid tumors found in breast, lung, bladder, head and neck, as well as cervical, ovarian, and testicular cancer. This medication can be used alone or in combination with other medicines to combat cancer effectively. However, it is essential to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor due to its potency and toxicity. It is also advised to avoid alcohol consumption and stay well-hydrated during the treatment.


In the management of rheumatoid arthritis, Folitrax 20 Tablet, which belongs to a group of medicines called antimetabolites, can be an option for severe cases where other treatments have not yielded results. By reducing the body's immune system, it helps alleviate swelling, pain, and stiffness in the joints, thus improving overall joint function. It is crucial to follow the prescription diligently and avoid exceeding the recommended dosage to achieve the maximum benefit. Though it may take some time to show full effectiveness, Folitrax 20 Tablet can significantly improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis over time.


For individuals suffering from psoriasis, Folitrax 20 Tablet is another valuable treatment option, especially for severe cases where other therapies have not been successful. By belonging to the group of antimetabolites, this medication works by targeting and eliminating the rapidly multiplying skin cells responsible for psoriasis symptoms. Like in other uses, it is imperative to adhere to the prescribed dosage and duration to reap the full benefits while avoiding alcohol intake and ensuring adequate hydration.


Moreover, Folitrax 20 Tablet is beneficial in managing Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory condition of the intestines characterized by symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. This medication helps reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and prevent disease recurrence, offering relief to individuals dealing with this challenging condition. Therefore, with its wide spectrum of uses, Folitrax 20 Tablet proves to be a versatile and effective option in the treatment of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease, providing patients with much-needed relief and improved quality of life.


How to use the Folitrax 20 Tablet

To use Folitrax 20 Tablet, it is essential to follow the instructions provided by your doctor precisely. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, and it is important not to chew, crush, or break it. You can take Folitrax 20 Tablet with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time every day. If you are prescribed Folitrax 20 TabletTablet 4's, take it exactly as directed by your doctor. For tablets or capsules, it is advised to take them one hour after food in the evening or as per your doctor's instructions. Swallow the tablet or capsule with a glass of water while standing or sitting upright, without breaking or chewing it. In the case of an oral solution, consume the prescribed quantity by mouth using the dosing syringe provided. Always remember not to crush or chew Folitrax 20 Tablet and let your doctor determine the appropriate dose and duration based on factors such as your age, weight, and medical condition. Following these guidelines will help you maximize the benefits of Folitrax 20 Tablet effectively.


Uses of Folitrax 20 Tablet

Folitrax 20 Tablet is commonly used for treating various conditions, including cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn's disease. For cancer patients, it can be effective in the treatment of bone and lung cancer, as well as ALL (Acute Lymphocytic/lymphoblastic Leukemia). In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children, Folitrax 20 Tablet has shown positive outcomes. This medication plays a crucial role in managing these conditions and improving the quality of life for patients.


What conditions Folitrax 20 Tablet treats?

Folitrax 20 Tablet is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a condition where the body's immune system attacks its own tissue, causing joint pain and damage. It is also effective in managing psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory arthritis linked to psoriasis or genetic predisposition, affecting joints in the extremities and causing skin symptoms. Additionally, Folitrax 20 Tablet can help in treating psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by rapid skin cell multiplication leading to skin scaling and joint pain.


Should you consult a doctor?

It is important to seek medical advice before taking Folitrax 20 Tablet if you have blood disorders, an impaired immune system, a current or past infection, ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract, or if you are receiving vaccinations with live vaccines. Additionally, it is crucial to inform your doctor if you have diabetes, mental illness, are undergoing radiotherapy, are scheduled for surgery involving general anesthesia, or have ulcers in the colon (ulcerative colitis). Seeking medical guidance in these situations will help ensure the safe and effective use of Folitrax 20 Tablet.


Side effects of Folitrax 20 Tablet

Folitrax 20 Tablet may cause various side effects, although most of them typically fade away as your body gets used to the medication. However, it's essential to be aware of potential side effects and consult your doctor if they persist or if you have concerns. Common side effects include ulcerative stomatitis, nausea, abdominal pain, increased liver enzymes, hair loss, and decreased blood cells such as red cells, white cells, and platelets. Other possible side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, unusual fatigue, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, tingling sensation, soreness of mouth and lips, formation of lumps with pain in the back, weight loss, development of night sweats, bleeding from the nose, formation of blisters, peeling of the skin, ulcers in the vagina for women, decreased resistance to infections, sensitivity to light, swelling of the mouth, anorexia, elevated blood sugar levels, depression, confusion, and muscle and joint pain. If you experience severe symptoms such as infections, sore throat, mouth ulcers, inflammation of the lung with breathlessness, skin blistering, fever with swollen glands, loss of co-ordination, weakness in the body, convulsions, yellowing of the skin or eyes, swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet, chest pain, unexpected bleeding, or fever with abnormal bleeding tendencies, it is crucial to stop taking Folitrax 20 Tablet immediately and seek medical attention.


Safety advice

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liver

Folitrax 20 Tablet needs to be used cautiously by individuals with liver disease. It may be necessary to adjust the dose of the medication in such cases. It is important to consult with your doctor regarding the use of Folitrax 20 Tablet if you have liver issues.

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kidney

Folitrax 20 Tablet should be used carefully in patients with kidney disease. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose. Regularly check your kidney function while on this medication.

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alcohol

It is unsafe to drink alcohol while taking Folitrax 20 Tablet.

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driving

Folitrax 20 Tablet may cause drowsiness, reduce alertness, or affect vision. Avoid driving if experiencing these effects.

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pregnancy

Folitrax 20 Tablet should not be used during pregnancy as it has been found to be highly unsafe. Both studies on pregnant women and animals have demonstrated significant harmful effects on the developing baby. Consulting your doctor is important.

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breastfeeding

Caution should be taken while breastfeeding and using Folitrax 20 Tablet as it is considered unsafe during this period. There is a risk of the drug causing toxicity to the baby.


Age above 75(Geriatrics)

Folitrax 20 Tablet is recommended to be administered with caution and in a lower dosage to elderly patients due to diminished function of the liver and kidneys and reduced folate levels in the blood. Consult the doctor before takingFolitrax 20 Tablet.



Age below 6 months(Pediatrics)

Folitrax 20 Tablet is not recommended in children for the management of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, Folitrax 20 Tablet can be used with caution in children to manage polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Your doctor will prescribe the right dose depending on your child’s age, body weight, and disease condition. Consult the doctor before taking Folitrax 20 Tablet.


Consumption warning before consuming Folitrax 20 Tablet

Before consuming Folitrax 20 Tablet Tablet 4's, it is important to note certain warnings for your safety. Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any of its components or if you have specific health conditions such as immunodeficiency, bone marrow issues, low white blood cell or platelet count, severe anemia, liver problems from alcohol abuse, chronic liver disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Take caution and consult your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney problems, stomach or bowel ulcers, poor health conditions, recent vaccinations or upcoming vaccination schedules, diabetes, ascites, lung problems, or fluid in the lungs. This medicine may cause dizziness and fatigue, affecting your ability to drive, so only drive when fully alert. Always adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and duration to avoid serious complications. If you experience mouth sores, diarrhea, fever, dehydration, cough, bleeding, shortness of breath, signs of infection, or a skin rash, stop takingFolitrax 20 Tablet Tablet 4's and seek medical advice promptly.


Disease interactions

When taking Folitrax 20 Tablet, it is important to inform your doctor if you have certain health conditions. These include immunodeficiency conditions, bone marrow problems, low white blood cell count, low platelet count, serious anemia, liver problems due to alcohol abuse, or chronic liver disease. It is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your medical history to ensure safe and effective use of this medication.


What if you forgot to take Folitrax 20 Tablet?

If you forget to take a dose of Folitrax 20 Tablet, try to take it as soon as you remember. But if it's nearly time for your next scheduled dose, just skip the missed one and continue with your normal dosing routine. Avoid taking a double dose to make up for the missed one. It's important to stick to your prescribed dosing schedule for the best results.


What happens if you take overdose of Folitrax 20 Tablet?

In the event of an accidental overdose of Folitrax 20 Tablet, it is essential to seek immediate medical advice from your doctor. Excessive intake of this medication may lead to symptoms such as increased bruising or bleeding, nausea, vomiting, unusual weakness, and the appearance of mouth sores and ulcers. If you or someone you know experiences these signs after taking Folitrax 20 Tablet, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly for proper evaluation and guidance.


Related lab tests

For individuals taking Folitrax 20 Tablet, several related lab tests can provide valuable information about their health. These tests help monitor the effects of the medication and assess various aspects of the body's functioning. Among the related lab tests are the Anti Saccharomyces Cerevisiae (ASCA) tests, including IgA and IgG variants. These tests can help in diagnosing certain autoimmune conditions. Additionally, the Rheumatoid Factor tests, which include Agglutination and Turbidometry methods, along with the Rheumatoid Factor IgG Antibody test, are important for assessing autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.


Furthermore, routine lab tests such as the Complete Blood Count (CBC) or Hemogram can provide information about various blood components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Monitoring these parameters is crucial while on medication like Folitrax 20 Tablet. The Liver Function Test (LFT) is also essential to assess the health of the liver, as some medications may affect liver function. Similarly, the Kidney Function Test (KFT) helps in evaluating the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the blood. Regular monitoring of kidney function is important to ensure the medication is not causing harm to the kidneys with prolonged use.


Additional Information

Habit FormingNo
Chemical ClassGlutamic Acid Derivatives
Therapeutic ClassANTI NEOPLASTICS
Action ClassAntimetabolite- Methotrexate

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Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is to the best of our abilities to ensure it is accurate, reliable, and reviewed by a team of professionals. It should not be used to diagnose, prevent, or cure any health problem. The information presented here is not intended to create a doctor-patient relationship or replace a registered medical practitioner's advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The absence or provision of any information or warning regarding any medicine should not be assumed as an implied or explicit assurance of safety or efficacy. We highly recommend consulting your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on the content encountered on our website. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.

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Dr. Preeti Kumar

MBBS, DGO - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB - Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Last update on 01-Oct-2024