Methotrexate Tablets

Description

Methotrexate is an antineoplastic drug that is used to treat certain types of lymphoma (a type of cancer) and tumors. It works by slowing the growth of cells that multiply rapidly.

How It Works

Methotrexate works by slowing the growth of cells that multiply rapidly.

Directions

Please use according to your veterinarian's instructions.

Caution

Methotrexate can interact with several medications. Some of these include NSAIDS, cyclosporine, and folic acid. It is important to discuss with your pet's veterinarian all medications, supplements, and herbal products you may be giving to your pet before starting methotrexate.

Side Effect

• Diarrhea.
• Nausea.
• Lack of an appetite (especially in cats).
• Vomiting (especially in dogs).
• Hair loss.
• Lack of energy.

Warning

Wear gloves when handling methotrexate and giving it to your pet. Wash your hands well, afterward. Women of child-bearing age need to know that methotrexate can cause birth defects and harm a fetus.

Precautions

Keep away from children and animals. When giving methotrexate to your pet, it is important to avoid human exposure as much as possible. Wear gloves and immediately wash your hands after handling the drug. If you need to split the tablet or handle a broken tablet, wearing gloves is extremely important. Because of the nature of the drug and its toxicities, pregnant or nursing animals should avoid using methotrexate. Methotrexate can interact with several medications. Some of these include NSAIDS, cyclosporine, and folic acid. It is important to discuss with your pet's veterinarian all medications, supplements, and herbal products you may be giving to your pet before starting methotrexate. The veterinarian may also monitor your pet for toxicities associated with methotrexate by watching for signs of irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. They may also perform lab tests such as a complete blood count, renal function tests, and liver function tests. It is important to give your pet this medication exactly as prescribed and to not discontinue the drug without consulting with your pet's veterinarian. If you miss giving your pet the dose, give it to him as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on your normal schedule. If you are unsure about when to give a missed dose, contact your pet's veterinarian.