Folitrax 20 Injection

By Folitrax

Rx

1ml Injection in a Ampoule

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

September, 2025

About Folitrax 20 Injection

Folitrax 20 Injection is a medication that is primarily used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, providing relief and helping to prevent further damage to the joints. This injection is also prescribed for the treatment of severe forms of psoriasis, certain types of cancers, and Crohn's disease. It is important to note that Folitrax 20 Injection should only be administered under the supervision of a doctor or a nurse and should not be self-administered to ensure proper dosing and monitoring.

When prescribed Folitrax 20 Injection, your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and frequency of administration based on your specific condition, which may vary over time. It is crucial to strictly adhere to your doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and schedule to avoid serious side effects. The full benefits of this medication may take weeks or even months to become noticeable, so it is essential to continue the treatment as directed by your healthcare provider.

It is advised to avoid consuming alcohol while on Folitrax 20 Injection treatment, as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Common side effects associated with this medication may include abdominal pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, hair loss, and low blood platelets. Your doctor may recommend taking folic acid to help alleviate some of these side effects. If you experience persistent or worsening side effects, it is important to inform your doctor for further evaluation and management.

Folitrax 20 Injection is a potent medication that may affect your body's ability to fight infections and can lead to complications with your blood, liver, or kidneys. Regular blood tests are typically recommended by your doctor to monitor for any potential adverse effects. Prior to starting treatment with this medication, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, have underlying stomach, liver, or kidney issues, or are taking any other medications. It is crucial to disclose all medications you are currently using to avoid potential drug interactions that could affect the efficacy or safety of Folitrax 20 Injection.

It is essential to note that Folitrax 20 Injection is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it may harm the unborn baby or nursing infant. If you or your partner are undergoing treatment with this medication, precautions should be taken to avoid pregnancy for a certain period after stopping the treatment. Your doctor will likely conduct various tests, such as blood tests, X-rays, and physical examinations before and during the course of treatment to monitor your health and response to the medication effectively.


Benefits

Folitrax 20 Injection offers several benefits in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. When used for severe rheumatoid arthritis that hasn't responded to other treatments, Folitrax 20 belongs to a group of medicines known as antimetabolites. It works by reducing the body's immune response, which helps decrease swelling, pain, stiffness, and improves overall function. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and duration to maximize its effectiveness. Although not a first-line treatment, Folitrax 20 can be particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief with previous treatments.

Furthermore, in the treatment of severe psoriasis, Folitrax 20 Injection is effective in targeting the fast-growing skin cells characteristic of the condition. As an antimetabolite, it works by inhibiting the rapid cell growth, helping to alleviate psoriasis symptoms. It is important to note that Folitrax 20 is a potent and potentially toxic medicine, requiring careful consideration of the risks and benefits in consultation with a healthcare provider. Adhering to the prescribed regimen is crucial for optimal results, as it may take several months for the full effects to be realized.

In both cases, patients should avoid consuming alcohol while undergoing treatment with Folitrax 20 and ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water. By following the prescribed guidelines and maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals, patients can experience the benefits of Folitrax 20 Injection in managing rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis effectively.


How to use the Folitrax 20 Injection

To use Folitrax 20 Injection, it is important to have your doctor or nurse administer the medicine to you. Please do not try to give yourself the injection. Your healthcare provider is trained to safely administer the medication to ensure proper dosage and effectiveness. By following this guidance, you can help ensure the best outcome and avoid any potential risks associated with self-administration. Always consult your healthcare provider for the correct administration of Folitrax 20 Injection.


Uses of Folitrax 20 Injection

"Folitrax 20 Injection" is typically used for several medical conditions, including the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, cancer, and Crohn’s disease. In rheumatoid arthritis, this injection helps reduce joint pain and swelling by suppressing the immune system's response attacking the joints. For psoriasis, Folitrax 20 Injection works by slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells, helping to alleviate symptoms. In cancer treatment, it is used to prevent the growth of cancer cells by targeting fast-growing cells. Additionally, it can also be prescribed for Crohn’s disease to help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.


What conditions Folitrax 20 Injection treats?

Folitrax 20 Injection is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a condition that can cause joint damage. It is also utilized for severe forms of psoriasis, a skin disease. In rheumatoid arthritis, it reduces swelling and pain by affecting the immune system. For psoriasis, it works by targeting fast-growing skin cells. This medicine is given under supervision and may take time to show benefits. Potential side effects include abdominal pain, nausea, and fatigue. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and avoid excessive alcohol intake to prevent liver damage.


Should you consult a doctor?

If you experience persistent side effects like abdominal pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, hair loss, or low blood platelets while using Folitrax 20 Injection, it is important to consult your doctor. Some common side effects may improve as your body gets used to the medication, but if they persist or worsen, you should seek medical advice. Additionally, if you develop any new symptoms or concerns, it is crucial to inform your doctor promptly. This medication can have serious side effects on blood, liver, or kidneys, so if you notice any unusual changes in your health, such as increased susceptibility to infections or abnormal blood test results, it is essential to seek medical attention. Your doctor will monitor your health throughout treatment with Folitrax 20 Injection, but it is crucial to report any issues promptly to ensure your safety and well-being.


Side effects of Folitrax 20 Injection

When using Folitrax 20 Injection, some common side effects may occur, but they usually go away as your body gets used to the medication. These side effects include abdominal pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, mouth sores, low blood platelets, and hair loss. It is important to consult your doctor if these side effects persist or if you have concerns about them.


Safety advice

scroll

liver

When using Folitrax 20 Injection, it is important to exercise caution if you have a liver disease. Adjusting the dosage of Folitrax 20 Injection may be necessary in such cases. It is recommended to consult your doctor before using this medication if you have any liver issues. Folitrax 20 Injection is not advised for individuals with severe liver disease.

scroll

kidney

Folitrax 20 Injection requires caution in patients with kidney disease. Dosage adjustment may be necessary; consult your doctor. Regular kidney function monitoring is recommended during treatment.

scroll

alcohol

When using Folitrax 20 Injection, be cautious when consuming alcohol. It's recommended to consult your doctor for more information.

scroll

driving

While using Folitrax 20 Injection, be cautious if experiencing decreased alertness, vision changes, drowsiness, or dizziness. Avoid driving if these symptoms are present to ensure safety on the road.

scroll

pregnancy

Folitrax 20 Injection is not safe to use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor as studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby in pregnant women and animals.

scroll

breastfeeding

Folitrax 20 Injection is considered unsafe while breastfeeding due to potential toxicity to the baby. It is advised to avoid using this medication during breastfeeding.


Consumption warning before consuming Folitrax 20 Injection

Before using Folitrax 20 Injection, it's important to note that this medicine is typically prescribed for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, various cancers, and Crohn's disease. It should only be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and frequency based on your condition, which may change over time. It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions precisely to avoid serious side effects.

While taking Folitrax 20 Injection, some common side effects may occur, such as abdominal pain, indigestion, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and low blood platelets. Your doctor may recommend taking folic acid to alleviate some of these side effects. If they persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. Additionally, this medication may weaken your immune system and affect your blood, liver, or kidneys, so regular blood tests are necessary to monitor for any potential issues.

Before starting this treatment, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, have liver, kidney, or stomach problems, or are taking any other medications. Avoid consuming alcohol while on this medication, as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Furthermore, it is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it may harm the baby. After the treatment stops, effective contraception should be used for several months to prevent pregnancy. Your doctor may conduct various tests before and during the treatment to ensure your safety.


Related lab tests

When taking Folitrax 20 Injection, it may be necessary to monitor certain lab tests to ensure the medication is working effectively and to watch for any potential side effects. Related lab tests that may be recommended include:

1. Anti Saccharomyces Cerevisiae (ASCA), IgA: This test helps in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease. It measures the levels of IgA antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a yeast commonly found in the intestines.

2. Anti Saccharomyces Cerevisiae (ASCA), IgG: Similar to the IgA test, this measures the levels of IgG antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae and can aid in the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases.

3. Rheumatoid Factor - Agglutination: This test detects the presence of rheumatoid factor antibodies in the blood, which are commonly associated with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Rheumatoid Factor - Turbidometry: Another method to measure rheumatoid factor antibodies in the blood, using a different technique for detection.

5. Rheumatoid Factor IgG Antibody: This test specifically looks for IgG antibodies that target the body's own tissues, commonly found in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

These lab tests help healthcare providers monitor the patient's response to Folitrax 20 Injection and detect any potential complications early on. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding monitoring and follow-up lab tests while taking this medication.


Additional Information

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

FAQs


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.

138.35

Inclusive of all taxes

Content verified by

chevron-right

Dr. Archana Prabhakar

MBBS, M.Med (Family Medicine)

Last update on 11-Feb-2025