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.