<<forEachTiddler where 'tiddler.tags.contains(context.inTiddler.title)' sortBy tiddler.title ascending write '"*[["+tiddler.title+"]]\n"'>> <<tiddler AutoRefresh with: force>> antimetabolite which inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, an enzyme essential for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines ''Indications'' rheumatoid arthritis psoriasis acute lymphoblastic leukaemia ''Adverse effects'' mucositis myelosuppression pneumonitis pulmonary fibrosis liver cirrhosis ''Pregnancy'' women should avoid pregnancy for at least 3 months after treatment has stopped also men using methotrexate need to use effective contraception for at least 3 months after treatment ''Prescribing methotrexate'' high potential for harm taken weekly, rather than daily FBC, U&E and LFTs need to be regularly monitored (baseline, weekly till stabilised then 2-3/12thly) folic acid 5mg once weekly should be co-prescribed, taken more than 24 hours after methotrexate dose the starting dose of methotrexate is 7.5 mg weekly only one strength of methotrexate tablet should be prescribed (usually 2.5 mg) avoid prescribing trimethoprim or cotrimoxazole concurrently - increases risk of marrow aplasia