ra (METHOTREXATE)

What is Ra?

Ra is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer, severe rheumatoid arthritis, severe psoriasis, and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It works by inhibiting dihydrofolate reductase, an enzyme necessary for DNA synthesis, repair, and replication. This action targets rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells and cells involved in autoimmune conditions.

What is the usual dose of Ra?

Ra is a medicine used to treat several diseases. The amount given depends on the illness and the patient's age. 

Adults:

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): 20 mg/m² orally once weekly.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Start at 7.5 mg orally once weekly, escalating as needed. Maximum: 20 mg per week.

Psoriasis: 10–25 mg orally once weekly, with a maximum of 30 mg per week.

Children:

Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: 10 mg/m² orally once weekly, up to a maximum of 30 mg/m² per week.

 

How do I take Ra?

Take Ra exactly as prescribed, typically once a week. It may be taken with or without food. Patients should avoid alcohol and consult their healthcare provider regarding any food restrictions. Folic acid supplementation is often recommended to minimize side effects.

For how long do I take Ra?

The duration depends on the condition being treated and response to therapy. For autoimmune diseases, treatment is usually long-term, but dose adjustments or discontinuation may occur based on clinical response or side effects.

What is Ra used for?

Ra is a strong medicine used to fight cancer and some serious immune system problems. Doctors use it in combination with other drugs to treat childhood leukemia (ALL) and a type of adult lymphoma. It also helps adults with rheumatoid arthritis (painful, swollen joints) and severe psoriasis (skin condition), and children with a specific type of arthritis (pJIA).

How long does it take for Ra to start working?

For autoimmune conditions, responses are usually observed within 3 to 6 weeks, though it may take up to 12 weeks for full effect. For cancer, the response depends on the specific regimen and cancer type.

Is Ra effective?

Clinical trials have demonstrated Ra’s effectiveness in treating autoimmune diseases and certain cancers. Its efficacy is attributed to its ability to target rapidly dividing cells and modulate immune activity.

How does one know if Ra is working?

For autoimmune conditions, improvement in symptoms (e.g., reduced joint swelling or skin lesions) indicates efficacy. For cancers, monitoring involves imaging, lab tests, and symptom changes.

How does Ra work?

Ra inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, disrupting DNA synthesis, repair, and replication in rapidly dividing cells. This mechanism underpins its effects in cancer and autoimmune diseases.

Who should avoid taking Ra?

Ra Contraindications include:

Pregnancy (for non-cancer indications).

Severe hypersensitivity to Ra.

Severe liver or kidney impairment.

Active infections or immunodeficiency.

Can I take Ra with vitamins or supplements?

Tell your doctor about all the medicines, vitamins, and herbal things you take, even if they're not prescribed. This is important if you're taking Ra. This helps your doctor make sure there are no problems when you take Ra with other things.

 

Can I take Ra with other prescription drugs?

Certain drugs, like NSAIDs, penicillins, and proton pump inhibitors, can increase Ra’s toxicity. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications to avoid harmful interactions.

Can Ra be taken safely while pregnant?

No, Ra is contraindicated during pregnancy for non-cancer indications due to high risks of fetal harm, including birth defects and fetal death. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for six months after stopping Ra.

Can Ra be taken safely while breastfeeding?

If you're taking Ra , don't breastfeed during treatment and for a week after you finish. The medicine in Ra can get into breast milk and harm your baby.

 

Is Ra safe for the elderly?

Elderly patients may be at higher risk of adverse effects due to age-related kidney function decline. Close monitoring and dose adjustments are advised.

How should I store Ra?

Keep the medicine Ra at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F). Once opened, use it within 3 months. Keep the bottle closed tight. Throw away the medicine, bottle, and any used syringes properly—don't put them in the trash or toilet.

 

Does Ra make people tired or drowsy?

Fatigue and malaise are common side effects. If these occur, consult your doctor and avoid activities like driving if affected.

Does Ra cause stomach upset?

Nausea and vomiting occur in up to 10% of patients. To manage, take the medication with food and consult your doctor for symptomatic treatments.

Does Ra affect sleep?

Sleep disturbances are not common. If experienced, consult your healthcare provider.

Does Ra make it hard to think or concentrate?

Cognitive effects like dizziness and transient cognitive dysfunction are rare. If these occur, report to your doctor.

Does Ra affect mood?

Mood alterations have been reported. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience significant mood changes.

Does Ra interfere with sexual function?

Ra may reduce libido or cause menstrual irregularities. If this is a concern, consult your doctor.

Does Ra affect appetite?

Loss of appetite may occur. Ensure adequate nutrition and inform your doctor if this persists.

Does Ra cause weight gain?

Ra might make you gain weight. If your weight changes while you're taking it, tell your doctor right away.

 

Does Ra cause headaches?

Headaches are infrequent but may occur. If persistent or severe, consult your doctor.

Does Ra limit driving?

Ra can sometimes cause nerve problems that get worse over time and may not go away. These problems could be serious, even life-threatening. If you find it hard to drive safely while on this medicine, stop driving right away and call your doctor.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Ra?

If you're taking the medicine Ra, tell your doctor how much alcohol you drink, and if that amount changes. This is important for your safety and to make sure the medicine works correctly.

 

Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Ra?

Caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea do not affect Ra’s safety or effectiveness.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Ra?

Yes, unless fatigue or other side effects limit your ability. Discuss with your doctor if you have concerns.

What are Ra possible harms and risks?

Ra pills can cause mouth sores and low blood cell counts. Taking too much, even accidentally, can be very dangerous and even deadly. It can also harm a baby if you're pregnant, and it's not certain if you'll be able to have children after taking it. Follow your doctor's instructions exactly.