Folitrax 7.5 Tablet

Folitrax 7.5 tablet contains methotrexate as an active ingredient. It belongs to a class of medicines called antimetabolites.

It is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. It is a prescription medicine, so never suggest this medicine to anyone, even if their condition is similar to yours. The doctor decides the dosage and frequency of taking Folitrax based on clinical condition and response to treatment.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or are breastfeeding and about all the medicines and supplements you take and all the conditions or diseases you suffer from before starting the Folitrax 7.5 tablet.

Dosage

Overdose

Kindly avoid overdosage of Folitrax, as it may cause certain side effects. In case of an overdose (accidental or otherwise), seek immediate medical attention.

Missed a Dose

Folitrax 7.5 tablet dosage should not be missed as it is for regular use. If you miss a dose, kindly take the medicine at the earliest and if it is time for the following scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and avoid doubling the dose.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

• Folitrax 7.5 tablet acts by decreasing inflammation that leads to joint pain, destruction in rheumatoid arthritis. It prevents further joint damage.
• In psoriasis, it suppresses the overactive immune system which helps control skin lesions of psoriasis.

Directions for Use

• Take the dosage of the Folitrax 7.5 tablet as per the doctor's prescription.
• This medication should be taken by mouth only.
• Do not take this medicine beyond the prescribed dose.
• Swallow this medicine as a whole with water.
• The medicine should not be chewed, crushed or broken.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take the Folitrax 7.5 tablet during pregnancy?

It is extremely unsafe to use Folitrax during pregnancy or if you are planning one.

Breast Feeding

Can I take the Folitrax 7.5 tablet while breastfeeding?

Avoid the use of Folitrax if you are breastfeeding as components of this medicine can pass in the breastmilk.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed the Folitrax 7.5 tablet?

It may cause drowsiness or tiredness after taking this medicine. Therefore, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery unless you know how this medicine affects you.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with the Folitrax 7.5 tablet?

It is advised to avoid the consumption of alcohol when using this medicine, as it is known to increase the risks of liver damage.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have any medical conditions like blood disorder, kidney disorder, intestinal disorder, lung disease, brain-related disorder, etc.
• You have mouth ulcers.
• You have diabetes or are being treated with insulin.
• You should take proper contraceptive measures during the treatment and should avoid pregnancy at least for 6 months after the treatment stops.
• Do not start, alter or stop this medicine on your own.
• You are giving this medicine to children.
• Consult your doctor regularly when on the treatment. He/she may monitor your blood, kidney and liver tests.
• You experience irregular menses or blood in urine or sputum.
• You develop fever, chills or any infection.
• You develop shortness of breath.
• Do not recommend this medicine to others.
• The medicine is restricted to prescription use.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to the Folitrax 7.5 tablet or any of the ingredients of this medicine.
• If you are pregnant or are breastfeeding.
• If you have any underlying medical conditions like severe liver and kidney disorders.
• If you have low levels of white blood cells and platelets.
• If you recently had an injection of live vaccines.
• If you have mouth ulcers or have ulcers in the stomach or intestine.
• If you are a chronic alcoholic.

Side effects

• Stomach discomfort
• Mouth ulcers
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Drowsiness
• Muscle pain

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Some medicines can affect the way the Folitrax 7.5 tablet works or sometimes the Folitrax itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines if taken at the same time.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction.
• Especially, if you are taking medicines to treat diabetes, painkillers, water pills, medicines to treat skin disorders, antibiotics, antiepileptic medicines, medicines used in chemotherapy, medicines to treat asthma, immunosuppressants, etc.
• Also if you are taking medicines containing folic acid along with this medicine, caution is advised.

Interactions with food items

Folitrax can be taken with or without food; however, it is generally recommended to take it at a fixed time each day to maintain consistent blood levels of the medication. Milk and dairy products should be limited because they can reduce the absorption of methotrexate, potentially decreasing its effectiveness.

Storage and disposal

• The medicine should be kept away from children.
• Do not use this medicine after the expiration date mentioned on it.
• Store this medicine in a closed container.
• Store this medicine at room temperatures not exceeding 25°C.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I let my healthcare provider know before using the Folitrax 7.5 tablet?

It is advisable to inform your doctor about the complete medical history, any history of alcoholism and liver disorders due to alcoholism, immunodeficiency syndrome, anaemia, low count of white blood cells and low count of platelets.

How long will it take to feel better with the intake of Folitrax?

It may take several months to experience the full benefit of this medicine until then do not stop or alter the course on your own.

Is Folitrax available in any other form?

Yes, Folitrax is available in the form of liquid syrup.

How many times a day should I take Folitrax 7.5?

Consult your doctor regarding the specific frequency of the intake. The doctor will decide the dose and duration based on the underlying condition and the patient's medical history.

Is Folitrax 7.5 immunosuppressant?

Yes, it is an immunosuppressant that suppresses the overactive immune system.

How do I reduce the side effects of Folitrax?

There are a few tips that can be helpful to reduce or cope with side effects of Folitrax such as drinking lots of fluids, eating and drinking slowly and having smaller, more frequent meals. In case of headache, avoid taking ibuprofen instead take paracetamol, rest and drink plenty of water.

Is Folitrax and methotrexate same?

Yes, Folitrax contains methotrexate as its active component, which is used for the treatment of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, which has been unresponsive to other conventional therapy.

How long can we take Folitrax?

Folitrax should be taken for as long as your doctor recommends. It is usually prescribed for long-duration like several days to a few weeks, depending on the underlying condition. It is advised to complete the full course of treatment. Also, it would be best if taken at the same time each day for optimum results.

Is Folitrax a painkiller?

No, Folitrax is not a painkiller. It is an immunosuppressant indicated for the treatment of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, which has been unresponsive to other conventional therapy.