Methotrexate

WILL I USE ANY OTHER DRUGS ALONGSIDE IT?

Some medicines interact with methotrexate and could cause unexpected side effects. Always tell your doctor that you are on methotrexate when they are planning to give you any other medication. It is particularly important that you avoid a group of antibiotics called the sulphonamides which includes co-trimoxazole, and also trimethoprim. You may also need careful monitoring if you take certain antibiotics.

It is advisable to talk to your doctor or IBD nurse before taking NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen because these can interact with methotrexate. These are normally not recommended for people with IBD anyway because they may make symptoms worse or trigger a flare-up. You should also tell your doctor if you are taking other anti-inflammatory drugs.

It is also important to tell your doctor, IBD nurse or pharmacist about any other medicines you are taking or thinking of taking, including over-the-counter medicines, such as cold or flu remedies, multi-vitamins, herbal, complementary or alternative therapies.

You should always tell any other doctor or dentist treating you that you are taking methotrexate. It may help to carry a complete list of your medications with you.

References