by Anthony Cosenza II

Created on: March 20, 2009

As with all medical advice, it is always prudent to consult with your physician on any questions and concerns that you would have with taking this medication.

Methotrexate (brand names: Rheumatrex, Trexall), is used for a variety of reasons, including the treatment of certain cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis, but is typically used as a last resort when other medications have failed to treat the ailment. This particular medication works by slowing down the growth of certain types of cells, which is why it is effective in treating some cancers, and thus is also a not a medication that should be taken if you are pregnant or if you are breast feeding.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) puts methotrexate in category "x" on pregnancy, because it can cause birth defects in unborn children, and should absolutely not be used if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant or you are breast feeding. It is important that both male and female partners use a preventative form of birth control because methotrexate can cause birth defects no matter which partner is taking the medication. In the event that you suspect that you may be pregnant while taking methotrexate, immediately contact you physician and inform them of this change.

It is possible to eventually have children if you have previously used methotrexate. Men who have taken methotrexate should wear a condom while taking methotrexate and should continue to wear a condom for at least 90 days after stopping the medication. Women should use an effective form of birth control while taking methotrexate, and should continue to use an effective firm of birth control for at least one ovulation cycle after stopping this medication.

One can take methotrexate if they want to get pregnant, but she use the cautions listed above and should always consult with their physician to ensure that it is safe for them to get pregnant. Blood tests may be needed to ensure that there are no harmful effects to you because of this medication. One can not breast feed while using methotrexate, and one should use an effective, preventative, form of birth control while using methotrexate.

There are other things to consider before using this medication. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Do not use this medication if you have liver disease, cirrosis of the liver due to alcholism, if you have a history of alcoholism, if you have a blood disorder (lack of red or white blood cells) or if you have a bone marrow disorder.

You should also tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other medications and if you have liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease or pneumonia, stomach ulcers, an infection, or if you are under going radiation treatment.

Regular blood tests, as well as tests on the function of your liver and kidney's may be advised to be sure that there are no adverse side effects to this medication.

Always consult your physician, and discuss this medication option thoroughly with them before deciding if this medication is right for you.

Sources: Food and Drug Administration; Drugs.com and its subsidaries

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