Methotrexate (2.5mg)

METROTREX 2.5 is an oral tablet that contains Methotrexate 2.5 mg, a medication belonging to the class of antimetabolites and immunosuppressants. It works by interfering with cell growth and immune system activity, making it effective in conditions where immune overactivity or abnormal cell division plays a key role.

Composition of METROTREX 2.5

• Active Ingredient: Methotrexate 2.5 mg

• Dosage Form: Oral tablet

This low-dose formulation allows precise dose adjustment, which is especially important in long-term conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

How METROTREX 2.5 Works (Mechanism of Action)

Methotrexate has a dual mechanism of action, depending on the condition being treated.

1. Antimetabolite Action

Methotrexate inhibits the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, which is essential for DNA synthesis and cell replication. By blocking this enzyme:

• Rapidly dividing cells are prevented from multiplying

• Abnormal immune cell activity is reduced

• Inflammatory processes are controlled

2. Immunomodulatory Effect

At low doses (as used in autoimmune diseases):

• Methotrexate suppresses overactive immune responses

• Reduces inflammation and joint damage

• Helps control symptoms without excessive immune suppression

This balanced mechanism makes METROTREX 2.5 effective yet manageable when used correctly.

Uses of METROTREX 2.5

METROTREX 2.5 is prescribed for a wide range of medical conditions.

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Reduces joint pain, swelling, and stiffness

• Slows disease progression

• Prevents long-term joint damage

2. Psoriasis

• Controls moderate to severe plaque psoriasis

• Reduces skin inflammation and scaling

• Improves skin appearance and comfort

3. Psoriatic Arthritis

• Helps manage joint pain and inflammation associated with psoriasis

4. Other Autoimmune Disorders

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (in selected cases)

• Certain inflammatory bowel conditions (off-label use)

5. Cancer Treatment (Low-Dose or Combination Therapy)

• Leukemia

• Lymphomas

• Certain solid tumors (as part of chemotherapy regimens)

6. Medical Use in Special Conditions

• Ectopic pregnancy (under strict medical supervision)

Benefits of METROTREX 2.5

1. Gold Standard Therapy in Rheumatology

Methotrexate is considered the first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis worldwide.

2. Disease-Modifying Action

Unlike painkillers, METROTREX 2.5 modifies the disease process, not just symptoms.

3. Long-Term Symptom Control

Helps patients maintain mobility, independence, and quality of life.

4. Cost-Effective and Widely Available

Affordable and accessible in India for long-term treatment.

5. Flexible Dosing

2.5 mg strength allows gradual dose titration based on patient response.

6. Reduces Need for Steroids

Helps minimize long-term steroid use and associated side effects.

Dosage of METROTREX 2.5

Important: Methotrexate is usually taken once weekly, not daily.

Typical Dosage for Rheumatoid Arthritis & Psoriasis

• Starting dose: 7.5–15 mg once weekly

• Adjusted gradually based on response

• Maximum dose decided by physician

How to Take METROTREX 2.5

• Take on the same day each week

• Swallow tablets whole with water

• Can be taken with or after food

Folic Acid Supplementation

• Usually prescribed alongside Methotrexate

• Reduces side effects like mouth ulcers and nausea

Missed Dose

• Take within 1–2 days if remembered

• Skip if close to next scheduled dose

• Never double the dose

Side Effects of METROTREX 2.5

Most side effects are dose-dependent and reversible with proper monitoring.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Mouth ulcers

Less Common Side Effects

• Hair thinning

• Skin rashes

• Mild liver enzyme elevation

Serious but Rare Side Effects

• Liver toxicity

• Bone marrow suppression

• Lung inflammation (methotrexate pneumonitis)

• Severe infections

Immediate medical attention is required if serious symptoms appear.

Precautions and Warnings

1. Liver Monitoring

• Regular liver function tests required

• Avoid alcohol completely

2. Kidney Function

• Dose adjustment may be needed in kidney disease

3. Pregnancy Warning

• Strictly contraindicated in pregnancy

• Effective contraception required during and after treatment

4. Breastfeeding

• Not recommended while using Methotrexate

5. Infection Risk

• Suppresses immune system

• Avoid contact with active infections

Drug Interactions

METROTREX 2.5 may interact with:

• NSAIDs (use under medical supervision)

• Certain antibiotics (e.g., trimethoprim)

• Alcohol (increases liver toxicity)

• Proton pump inhibitors (in some cases)

Always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

Lifestyle & Monitoring Tips

• Regular blood tests (CBC, LFT, RFT)

• Avoid alcohol completely

• Maintain adequate hydration

• Report cough, breathlessness, or fever immediately

• Follow weekly dosing strictly

Why Choose METROTREX 2.5?

• Clinically Proven & Trusted Medication

• First-Line Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Precise Low-Dose Strength for Safer Use

• Cost-Effective for Long-Term Treatment

• Widely Prescribed by Specialists in India

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C

• Protect from light and moisture

• Keep out of reach of children

• Do not use expired tablets

Conclusion

METROTREX 2.5 (Methotrexate 2.5 mg) is a cornerstone medication in the management of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Its disease-modifying action, proven long-term effectiveness, and affordability make it one of the most trusted therapies in modern medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. What is METROTREX 2.5 used for?

It is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers.

Q2. Is METROTREX 2.5 taken daily?

No. It is usually taken once weekly, unless prescribed otherwise.

Q3. Why is folic acid given with Methotrexate?

Folic acid reduces side effects like mouth ulcers and nausea.

Q4. Can METROTREX 2.5 cure arthritis?

It does not cure arthritis but controls disease progression effectively.

Q5. Is alcohol allowed while taking Methotrexate?

No. Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage.

Q6. How long does Methotrexate take to work?

Improvement is usually seen within 4–8 weeks.

Q7. Can elderly patients take METROTREX 2.5?

Yes, with careful dose adjustment and monitoring.

Q8. Is long-term use safe?

Yes, when taken under medical supervision with regular monitoring.