Drugs Flashcards
1
Q
What type of drug is methotrexate and what is it used for?
A
Methotrexate is a DMARD. Prescribed for RA, psoriatic arthritis and vasculitis.
2
Q
What are the side effects of methotrexate?
A
In some patients methotrexate can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, mouth ulcers, minor hair loss and skin rashes.
[Can cause mouth ulcers, GI upset, (due to the high cell turnover rates in these areas) and possibly liver and haematological disturbances. GI Side effects can be reduced by giving folic acid supplement – folic acid should be taken once per week, and blood test for folate levels taken every two weeks. Also: Liver problems; Teratogenic; Myelosuppression; Rashes; Shouldn’t take with alcohol.]
