side effects
Last reviewed 08/2023
A possible side effect is the development of pulmonary fibrosis - the changes induced by the drug may resolve despite continuing treatment.
Other side effects include:
- impairment of liver function
- bone marrow suppression
- pneumonitis
- megaloblastic anaemia
- nausea, vomiting and anorexia
- impaired fertility, menstrual dysfunction and amenorrhoea, oligospermia
- teratogenic - should not be used in pregnancy, and conception should be avoided for at least 3 months after treatment with methotrexate
- skin ulceration in psoriatic patients and rarely painful erosion of psoriatic plaques have been reported (1)
The summary of product characteristics must be consulted before prescribing this drug.
Reference:
- Wyeth (February 2001). Methotrexate injection 25mg/ml and methotrexate 2.5mg tablets. Summary of Product Characteristics and Data Sheet.