Methotrexate is to be injected into the veins, muscles, spinal cord or the subarachnoid space, or orally taken as tablets. The dose may be adjusted based on the body surface area estimated by the physicians. Methotrexate is usually accompanied by the use of Leucovorin to reduce side effects.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Adult
Oral: 7.5 mg once weekly. Adjust based on response to a dose not more than 20 mg weekly.
Psoriasis
Adult
Oral: 10-25 mg once weekly. Adjust subsequent doses based on response.
Intramuscular or intravenous: 10-25 mg once weekly. Adjust subsequent doses based on response.
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Adult
Oral: 15 mg/m2 once or twice weekly, with other agents for maintenance.
Intravenous: 2.5 mg/kg every 14 days for maintenance.
Breast cancer
Adult
Intravenous: 10-60 mg/m2 often with cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil.
Common side effects of Methotrexate include, but not limited to, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, increased liver enzymes, hair loss, skin photosensitivity, osteoporosis, venous thromboembolism, pigmentary changes, increased risk of infection and lung problems including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pulmonary fibrosis.
There are some other contraindications. Please notify the physician of your condition before being administered with Methotrexate.
Common dosing schedule:
Methotrexate injections are prescribed in institutions by the physicians.
Oral Methotrexate is to be taken once weekly. Bear in mind that the same day of the week should be chosen to take the tablets and the days should be separated as far as possible.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Methotrexate may interact with:
Methotrexate may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Methotrexate is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Methotrexate in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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