METHOTREXATE- methotrexate tablet
Chartwell RX, LLC
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HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATIONMethotrexate Tablets
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use METHOTREXATE TABLETS safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for METHOTREXATE TABLETS. METHOTREXATE tablets, for oral use Initial U.S. Approval: 1953 WARNING: EMBRYO-FETAL TOXICITY, HYPERSENSITIVITYREACTIONS, and SEVERE ADVERSE REACTIONSSee full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
RECENT MAJOR CHANGESINDICATIONS AND USAGEMethotrexate tablets are a dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor indicated for the:
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHSTablets: 2.5 mg ( 3) CONTRAINDICATIONSWARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
ADVERSE REACTIONSCommon adverse reactions include ulcerative stomatitis, leukopenia, nausea, abdominal distress. ( 6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Chartwell RX, LLC. at 1-845-232-1683 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 www.fda.gov/medwatch. DRUG INTERACTIONSRefer to the full prescribing information for drug interactions with methotrexate. ( 7) USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONSLactation: Instruct not to breastfeed. ( 8.2) See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and FDA-approved patient labeling. Revised: 8/2023 |
Methotrexate tablets areindicated for the:
Methotrexate tablets are indicated for the treatment ofadults with rheumatoid arthritis.
Verify pregnancy status in females ofreproductive potential before starting methotrexate tablets [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
Instruct patients and caregivers totake the recommended dosage as directed, because medication errors have led to deaths [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
When switching the dosing regimen from oral administrationtointravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous administration, an alternative dosing regimen may be necessary.
Do not administer to patients who are unabletoswallow a tablet.
Methotrexate tabletisa cytotoxic drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures. 1
Acute LymphoblasticLeukemia
The recommended starting dosage ofmethotrexate tablets is 20 mg/m 2orally once weekly, as part of a combination chemotherapy maintenance regimen. After initiating methotrexate tablets, periodically monitor absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and platelet count and adjust the dose to maintain ANC at a desirable level and for excessive myelosuppression.
MycosisFungoides
The recommended dosage of methotrexate tablets is 25 mgto75 mg orally once weekly when administered as a single agent or 10 mg/m 2orally twice weekly as part of a combination chemotherapy regimen.
Relapsed or RefractoryNon-Hodgkin Lymphomas
The recommended dosage of methotrexate tablets is 2.5 mg orally 2to4 times per week (maximum 10 mg per week) as part of a metronomic combination chemotherapy regimen.
The recommended starting dosage of methotrexate tablets is 7.5 mg orally once weekly with escalation to achieve optimal response. Dosages of more than 20 mg once weekly result in an increased risk of serious adverse reactions, including myelosuppression. When responses are observed, the majority occurred between 3 and 6 weeks from initiation of treatment; however, responses have occurred up to 12 weeks after treatment initiation.
Administer folic acidorfolinic acid to reduce the risk of methotrexate adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
The recommended starting dosage of methotrexate tablets is 10 mg/m 2orally once weekly with escalation to achieve optimal response. Dosages of more than 30 mg/m 2once weekly result in an increased risk of serious adverse reactions, including myelosuppression. When responses are observed, the majority occurred between 3 and 6 weeks from initiation of treatment; however, responses have occurred up to 12 weeks after treatment initiation.
Administer folic acidorfolinic acid to reduce the risk of methotrexate adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
The recommended dosage of methotrexate tablets is 10 mg to 25 mg orally once weekly until an adequate response is achieved. Adjust the dose gradually to achieve optimal clinical response; do not exceedadose of 30 mg per week. Once optimal clinical response has been achieved, reduce the dosage to the lowest possible dosing regimen.
Administer folic acid or folinic acid supplementation to reduce the riskofmethotrexate adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Discontinue methotrexate tablets for:
Withhold, dose reduce or discontinue methotrexate tablets as appropriate for:
Withhold or discontinue methotrexate tablets as appropriate for:
Methotrexate Tablets USP, 2.5 mg are round, convex, yellowtablets, scored in half on one side, engraved with M above the score, and 2.5 below and plain on the other side.
Methotrexate tabletsarecontraindicated in:
Based on published reports and its mechanism of action, methotrexate tablets can cause fetal harm, including fetal death, when administered to a pregnant woman. Methotrexate tablets are contraindicated for useinpregnant women receiving methotrexate tablets for the treatment of non-malignant diseases. Advise pregnant women with neoplastic diseases of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with methotrexate tablets and for 6 months after the final dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during methotrexate tablets treatment and for 3 months after the final dose [see Contraindications (4), Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].
Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis,canoccur with methotrexate [see Contraindications (4), Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
If anaphylaxis or other serious hypersensitivityreactionoccurs, immediately and permanently discontinue methotrexate tablets [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
Methotrexate suppresses hematopoiesis and can cause severeandlife-threatening pancytopenia, anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] .
Obtain blood counts at baseline, periodically during treatment, and as clinically indicated. Monitor patients for clinical complications of myelosuppression. Withhold, dose reduce, or discontinue methotrexate tablets taking into accounttheimportance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severity of the disease being treated, the severity of the adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
Diarrhea, vomiting,nausea, and stomatitis occurred in up to 10% of patients receiving methotrexate for treatment of non-neoplastic diseases. Hemorrhagic enteritis and fatal intestinal perforation have been reported [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)] . Patients with peptic ulcer disease or ulcerative colitis are at a greater risk of developing severe gastrointestinal adverse reactions [see Drug Interactions (7.1)] .
Withhold or discontinue methotrexate tablets for severe gastrointestinal toxicity taking into account the importance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severity of the disease being treated, the severityofthe adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)] .
Methotrexate can cause severe and potentially irreversible hepatotoxicity, including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and fatal liver failure [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] . The safety of methotrexate tablets in patients with hepatic disease is unknown.
The risk of hepatotoxicity is increased with heavy alcohol consumption. In patients with psoriasis, fibrosis or cirrhosis may occur in the absence of symptoms or abnormal liver tests; the risk of hepatotoxicity appears to increase with total cumulativedoseand generally occurs after receipt of a total cumulative dose of 1.5 g or more.
Monitor liver tests at baseline, periodically during treatment and as clinically indicated. Withhold or discontinue methotrexate tablets taking into account the importance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severity of the disease being treated, the severity of the adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)] .
Pulmonary toxicity, including acute or chronic interstitial pneumonitis and irreversible or fatal cases,canoccur with methotrexate [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)] .
Monitor patients for pulmonary toxicity and withhold or discontinue methotrexate tablets taking into account the importance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severity of the disease being treated, the severityofthe adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)] .
Severe, including fatal dermatologic reactions, suchastoxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis, skin necrosis, and erythema multiforme, can occur with methotrexate [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2)].
Exposuretoultraviolet radiation while taking methotrexate may aggravate psoriasis.
Methotrexate can cause radiation recall dermatitisandphotodermatitis (sunburn) reactivation.
Monitor patients for dermatologic toxicity and withhold or permanently discontinue methotrexate tablets for severe dermatologic reactions taking into account the importance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severityofthe disease being treated, the severity of the adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)] . Advise patients to avoid excessive sun exposure and use sun protection measures.
Methotrexatecancause renal toxicity, including irreversible acute renal failure [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
Monitor renal function at baseline, periodically during treatment and as clinically indicated. Withhold or discontinue methotrexate tablets for severe renal toxicity taking into account the importance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severity of the disease being treated, the severityofthe adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
Administer glucarpidase in patients with toxic plasma methotrexate concentrations (> 1 micromole per liter)anddelayed methotrexate clearance due to impaired renal function. Refer to the glucarpidase prescribing information for additional information.
Deaths occurred in patients as a result of medication errors. Most commonly, these errors occurred in patients who were taking methotrexate daily when a weekly dosing regimen was prescribed.
For patients prescribed a once weekly dosing regimen, instruct patients and caregivers to take the recommended dosage as directed, because medication errors have led to death.
NeoplasticDiseases
Products containing folic acid or its derivatives may decreasetheclinical effectiveness of methotrexate. Therefore, instruct patients not to take products containing folic acid or folinic acid unless directed to do so by their healthcare provider.
Non-neoplasticDiseases
Folate deficiency may increase methotrexate adverse reactions. Administer folic acidorfolinic acid for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, pJIA, and psoriasis [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4, 2.5)].
Patients treated with methotrexate are at increased risk for developing life-threatening or fatal bacterial, fungal, or viral infections, including opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis jirovecipneumonia, invasive fungal infections, hepatitisBreactivation, tuberculosis primary infection or reactivation, and disseminated Herpes zosterand cytomegalovirus infections [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
Monitor patients for infection during and after treatment with methotrexate tablets. Withhold or discontinue methotrexate tablets for serious infections taking into account the importance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severityofthe disease being treated, the severity of the adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
Methotrexate can cause severe acuteandchronic neurotoxicity, which can be progressive, irreversible, and fatal [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)] . The risk of leukoencephalopathy is increased in patients who received prior cranial radiation.
Monitor patients for neurotoxicity and withhold or discontinue methotrexate tablets taking into account the importance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severity of the disease being treated, the severityofthe adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)] .
Secondary malignancies can occurwithmethotrexate [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)] . The risk of cutaneous malignancies is further increased when cyclosporine is administered to patients with psoriasis who received prior methotrexate.
In somecases, lymphoproliferative disease occurring during therapy with low-dose methotrexate regressed completely following withdrawal of methotrexate. If lymphoproliferative disease occurs, discontinue methotrexate tablets [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)] .
Methotrexate can induce tumor lysis syndrome in patients with rapidly growing tumors. Institute appropriate prophylactic measures in patients at risk for tumor lysis syndrome prior to initiationofmethotrexate tablets.
Disseminated infections following administration of live vaccines have been reported. Immunization with live vaccines isnotrecommended during treatment. Follow current vaccination practice guidelines for administration of immunizations in patients receiving methotrexate tablets.
Update immunizations according to immunization guidelines priortoinitiating methotrexate tablets. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of methotrexate should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents
Based on published reports, methotrexate can cause impairmentoffertility, oligospermia, and menstrual dysfunction. It is not known if the infertility may be reversible. Discuss the risk of infertility with females and males of reproductive potential [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)] .
Methotrexate accumulates in third-spaces (e.g., pleural effusions or ascites), which results in prolonged elimination and increases the risk of adverse reactions. Evacuate significant third-space accumulations priortomethotrexate tablets administration taking into account the importance of methotrexate tablet treatment in the context of the severity of the disease being treated, the severity of the adverse drug reaction, and availability of alternative therapy.
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
Because clinical trials and other studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Common adverse reactions were: ulcerative stomatitis, leukopenia, nausea, and abdominal distress. Other clinically relevant adverse reactions were infection, malaise, fatigue, chills, fever, and dizziness.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
The most common adverse reactions of methotrexate that exceeded the rate of placebo in 12- to 18-week double-blind studies in patients (n=128) with rheumatoid arthritis are listed below. Patients received methotrexate 7.5 mg to 15 mg orally once weekly. Most patients received concomitant nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some also received corticosteroids. Hepatic histology was not examined in these short-term studies.
Incidence ≥10%: Elevated liver tests 15%, nausea/vomiting 10%
Incidence 3% to <10%: Stomatitis, thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 100,000/mm 3)
Incidence 1% to <3%: Rash/pruritus/dermatitis, diarrhea, alopecia, leukopenia (white blood cell count < 3000/mm 3), pancytopenia, dizziness
Two other controlled trials of patients (n=680) with rheumatoid arthritis who received methotrexate 7.5 mg to 15 mg orally once weekly showed the following serious adverse reaction:
Incidence 1%: Interstitial pneumonitis
Other less common adverse reactions were: anemia, headache, upper respiratory infection, anorexia, arthralgias, chest pain, coughing, dysuria, eye discomfort, epistaxis, fever, infection, sweating, tinnitus, vaginal discharge.
Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (pJIA)
The most common adverse reactions reported in patients 2 to 18 years of age with pJIA treated with methotrexate 5 mg/m 2to 20 mg/m 2orally once weekly or 0.1 to 0.65 mg/kg orally once weekly were as follows: elevated liver tests 14%; gastrointestinal reactions (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) 11%; stomatitis 2%; leukopenia 2%; headache 1.2%; alopecia 0.5%; dizziness 0.2%; rash 0.2%. Most patients received concomitant NSAIDs and some also received corticosteroids.
Psoriasis
In two published series of adults with psoriasis (n=204, 248) who received methotrexate up to 25 mg per week for up to 4 years, adverse reaction rates were similar to those in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, except for alopecia, photosensitivity, and “burning of skin lesions” (3% to 10% each). Painful plaque erosions have been reported.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of methotrexate. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure
Cardiovascular:Thromboembolic events (including arterial thrombosis, cerebral thrombosis, deep vein thrombosis, retinal vein thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, and pulmonary embolus), pericarditis, pericardial effusion, hypotension, sudden death
Endocrine:Diabetes
Eye:Optic neuropathy, blurred vision, ocular pain, conjunctivitis, xerophthalmia
Gastrointestinal:Hemorrhagic enteritis, intestinal perforation, gingivitis, pancreatitis, pharyngitis, hematemesis, melena, gastrointestinal ulceration
Hematology:Aplastic anemia, lymphadenopathy, hypogammaglobulinemia
Hepatobiliary:Acute hepatitis, decreased serum albumin, fibrosis, cirrhosis
Immune system:Anaphylaxis, anaphylactoid reactions, vasculitis
Metabolism:Hyperglycemia
Musculoskeletal:Stress fracture, soft tissue and bone necrosis, arthralgia, myalgia, osteoporosis
Nervous system:Headaches, drowsiness, blurred vision, speech impairment (including dysarthria and aphasia), transient cognitive dysfunction, mood alteration, unusual cranial sensations, paresis, encephalopathy, and convulsions.
Renal:Azotemia, hematuria, proteinuria, cystitis
Reproductive:Defective oogenesis or spermatogenesis, loss of libido, impotence, gynecomastia, menstrual dysfunction
Respiratory:Pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory failure, chronic interstitial obstructive pulmonary disease, pleuritic pain and thickening, alveolitis
Skin:Toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis, skin necrosis, and erythema multiforme, erythematous rashes, pruritus, alopecia, skin ulceration, accelerated nodulosis, urticaria, pigmentary changes, ecchymosis, telangiectasia, photosensitivity, acne, furunculosis
Drugs that Increase Methotrexate Exposure
Coadministration of methotrexate with the following products may increase methotrexate plasma concentrations, which may increase the risk of methotrexate severe adverse reactions. In some cases, the coadministration of methotrexate with these products may also subsequently reduce active metabolite formation, which may decrease the clinical effectiveness of methotrexate. Increased organ specific adverse reactions may also occur when methotrexate is coadministered with hepatotoxic or nephrotoxic products.
If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor closely for methotrexate adverse reactions when coadministered with:
Nitrous Oxide
Coadministration of methotrexate with nitrous oxide anesthesia potentiates the effect of methotrexate on folate-dependent metabolic pathways, which may increase the risk of severe methotrexate adverse reactions. Avoid nitrous oxide anesthesia in patients receiving methotrexate. Consider alternative therapies in patients who have received prior nitrous oxide anesthesia.
Folic Acid
Coadministration of methotrexate with folic acid or its derivatives decreases the clinical effectiveness of methotrexate in patients with neoplastic diseases. Methotrexate competes with reduced folates for active transport across cell membranes. Instruct patients to take folic or folinic acid only as directed by their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Risk Summary
Methotrexate tablets are contraindicated in pregnant women with non-neoplastic diseases [see Contraindications (4)].
Based on published reports and its mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)] , methotrexate can cause embryo-fetal toxicity and fetal death when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no animal data that meet current standards for nonclinical developmental toxicity studies. Advise pregnant women with neoplastic diseases of the potential risk to a fetus.
In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Data
Human Data
Published data from case reports, literature reviews, and observational studies report that methotrexate exposure during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of embryo-fetal toxicity and fetal death. Methotrexate exposure during the first trimester of pregnancy is associated with an increased incidence of spontaneous abortions and multiple adverse developmental outcomes, including skull anomalies, facial dysmorphism, central nervous system abnormalities, limb abnormalities, and sometimes cardiac anomalies and intellectual impairment. Adverse outcomes associated with exposure during second and third trimesters of pregnancy include intrauterine growth restriction and functional abnormalities. Because methotrexate is widely distributed and persists in the body for a prolonged period, there is a potential risk to the fetus from preconception methotrexate exposure.
A prospective multicenter study evaluated pregnancy outcomes in women taking methotrexate less than or equal to 30 mg/week after conception. The rate of spontaneous abortion and miscarriage in pregnant women exposed to methotrexate was 42% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 29, 59), which was higher than in unexposed patients with autoimmune disease (22%; 95% CI: 17, 30) and unexposed patients with nonautoimmune disease (17%; 95% CI: 13, 23). Of the live births, the rate of major birth defects in pregnant women exposed to methotrexate after conception was higher than in unexposed patients with autoimmune disease (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.8 [95% CI: 0.6, 6]) and unexposed patients with non-autoimmune disease (adjusted OR 3.1 [95% CI: 1, 10]) (2.9%). Major birth defects associated with pregnancies exposed to methotrexate after conception were not always consistent with methotrexate-associated adverse developmental outcomes.
Risk Summary
Limited published literature report the presence of methotrexate in human milk in low amounts, with the highest breast milk to plasma concentration ratio reported to be 0.08:1. There are no data on the effects of methotrexate or its metabolites on the breastfed child or their effects on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed child, instruct women not to breastfeed during treatment with methotrexate tablets and for 1 week after the final dose.
Methotrexate can cause malformations and fetal death at doses less than or equal to the recommended clinical doses [ Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
Pregnancy Testing
Verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating methotrexate tablets [see Contraindications (4), Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
Contraception
Females
Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with methotrexate tablets and for 6 months after the final dose.
Males
Methotrexate can cause chromosomal damage to sperm cells. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with methotrexate tablets and for 3 months after the final dose.
Infertility
Females
Based on published reports of female infertility after methotrexate, advise females of reproductive potential that methotrexate can cause impairment of fertility and menstrual dysfunction during treatment with methotrexate tablets and after the final dose. It is not known if the infertility may be reversed in all affected females.
Males
Based on published reports of male infertility after methotrexate, advise males that methotrexate can cause oligospermia or infertility during treatment with methotrexate tablets and after the final dose. It is not known if the infertility may be reversed in all affected males.
The safety and effectiveness of methotrexate tablets in pediatric patients have been established for the treatment of ALL as part of the combination chemotherapy maintenance regimen and the treatment of pJIA [see Indications and Usage (1),Dosage and Administration (2)] . No new safety signals have been observed in pediatric patients in clinical studies [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] .
The safety and effectiveness of methotrexate tablets have not been established in pediatric patients for the other indications [see Indications and Usage (1)] .
Clinical studies of methotrexate did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
Methotrexate elimination is reduced in patients with renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Patients with renal impairment are at increased risk for methotrexate adverse reactions. Closely monitor patients with renal impairment [creatinine clearance (CLcr) less than 90 mL/min, Cockcroft-Gault] for adverse reactions. Reduce the dosage or discontinue methotrexate tablets as appropriate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)] .
The pharmacokinetics and safety of methotrexate in patients with hepatic impairment is unknown. Patients with hepatic impairment may be at increased risk for methotrexate adverse reactions based on the elimination characteristics of methotrexate [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Closely monitor patients with hepatic impairment for adverse reactions. Reduce the dosage or discontinue methotrexate tablets as appropriate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)] .
Overdosage, including fatal overdosage, has occurred with methotrexate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)] .
Manifestations
Manifestations of methotrexate overdosage include adverse reactions reported at pharmacologic doses, particularly hematologic and gastrointestinal reactions (e.g., leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, pancytopenia, myelosuppression, mucositis, stomatitis, oral ulceration, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal ulceration, or gastrointestinal bleeding). In some cases, no symptoms were reported; however, sepsis or septic shock, renal failure, and aplastic anemia were also reported.
Management
Leucovorin and levoleucovorin are indicated for diminishing the methotrexate adverse reactions of methotrexate overdosage. Administer leucovorin or levoleucovorin as soon as possible after methotrexate overdosage). Monitor serum creatinine and methotrexate levels to guide leucovorin or levoleucovorin therapy. Refer to the leucovorin or levoleucovorin prescribing information for additional dosage information.
Glucarpidase is indicated for the treatment of toxic plasma methotrexate concentrations (>1 micromole per liter) in patients with delayed methotrexate clearance due to impaired renal function. Refer to the glucarpidase prescribing information for additional dosage information.
Administer concomitant hydration and urinary alkalinization.
Neither hemodialysis nor peritoneal dialysis has been shown to improve methotrexate elimination; however, methotrexate has been effectively cleared with acute, intermittent hemodialysis using a high-flux dialyzer.
Methotrexate is dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor with the chemical name of L-Glutamic acid, N-[4-[[(2,4-diamino-6-pteridinyl)methyl]methylamino]benzoyl]-,disodium salt (9CI). The molecular formula is C
20H
22N
8O
5Na
2and the molecular weight is 498.40 g/mol. The structural formula is:
Methotrexate Tablets, USP for oral use is available in bottles of 36 tablets. Each methotrexate tablet contains 2.5 mg methotrexate equivalent to 2.74 mg methotrexate disodium and the following inactive ingredients: lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate and pregelatinized starch (maize).
Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolic acid reductase. Dihydrofolates must be reduced to tetrahydrofolates by this enzyme before they can be utilized as carriers of one-carbon groups in the synthesis of purine nucleotides and thymidylate. Therefore, methotrexate interferes with DNA synthesis, repair, and cellular replication. Actively proliferating tissues such as malignant cells, bone marrow, fetal cells, buccal and intestinal mucosa, and cells of the urinary bladder are in general more sensitive to this effect of methotrexate.
The mechanism of action in rheumatoid arthritis and in psoriasis is unknown.
Absorption
At doses of 30 mg/m 2or less, the mean bioavailability is approximately 60%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 0.75 to 6 hours following oral administration. Methotrexate may undergo enterohepatic recirculation; however, this pathway has not been fully characterized.
Effect of Food
Food has been shown to delay absorption and reduce peak concentration.
Distribution
Methotrexate in serum is approximately 50% protein bound.
Methotrexate does not penetrate the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier at concentrations achieved
with the recommended dosages.
Elimination
The elimination half-life of methotrexate is approximately 3 to 10 hours.
Small amounts of methotrexate polyglutamates may remain in tissues for extended periods. The retention and prolonged drug action of these active metabolites vary among different cells, tissues, and tumors.
Nonlinear elimination due to saturation of renal tubular reabsorption has been observed in studies of patients with psoriasis receiving methotrexate doses between 7.5 mg and 30 mg.
Metabolism
Methotrexate is partially metabolized by intestinal flora after oral administration.
Methotrexate primarily undergoes hepatic and intracellular metabolism to active polyglutamated forms which can be converted back to methotrexate by hydrolase enzymes. Methotrexate also undergoes minor metabolism to active 7-hydroxymethotrexate.
Excretion
Methotrexate primarily undergoes renal excretion by glomerular filtration and active tubular
secretion that is dependent upon dosage and route of administration.
Biliary excretion accounts for ≤10% of the methotrexate dose.
Specific Populations
The effect of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of methotrexate is unknown.
Pediatric Patients
In pediatric patients with leukemia, oral absorption (23% to 95%) of methotrexate is variable and dose-dependent. The difference between highest and lowest peak methotrexate concentrations (C max0.11 to 2.3 micromolar after a 20 mg/m 2dose) was 20-fold. The time to peak concentration (T max0.67 to 4 hours after a 15 mg/m 2dose) and fraction of dose absorbed is variable. The absorption of doses greater than 40 mg/m 2is significantly less than that of lower doses.
In pediatric patients with pJIA, plasma concentrations of methotrexate are variable. Following oral administration of methotrexate 6.4 mg/m 2/week to 11.2 mg/m 2/week, mean serum concentrations were 0.59 micromolar (0.03 to 1.40) at 1 hour, 0.44 micromolar (0.01 to 1.00) at 2 hours, and 0.29 micromolar (0.06 to 0.58) at 3 hours.
In pediatric patients receiving methotrexate for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (6.3 mg/m 2to 30 mg/m 2) or for JIA (3.75 mg/m 2to 26.2 mg/m 2), the terminal half-life has been reported to range from 0.7 to 5.8 hours or from 0.9 to 2.3 hours, respectively.
Patients with Renal impairment
The elimination half-life of methotrexate is variable and increases with the severity of renal impairment.
Methotrexate Tablets USP,2.5 mgare round, convex, yellow tablets, scored in half on one side, engraved with M above the score, and 2.5 below and plain on the other side.
Bottles of 36 NDC 62135-772-35
Store at20 oto 25 oC (68 oto 77 oF) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Methotrexate tablet is a cytotoxic drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures. 1
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information).
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Advise patients and their caregivers of the potential risk of hypersensitivity and that methotrexate tablets are contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to methotrexate. Instruct patients to seek immediate medical attention for signs of a hypersensitivity reaction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Myelosuppression and Serious Infections
Inform patients and their caregivers that methotrexate tablets can cause myelosuppression and the need for frequent monitoring of blood cell counts. Advise patients and their caregivers to immediately report new onset fever, symptoms of infection, easy bruising or persistent bleeding to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3, 5.11)].
Gastrointestinal Toxicity
Advise patients and their caregivers to report new or worsening diarrhea, vomiting, or stomatitis to their healthcare provider. Advise patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider for high fever, rigors, persistent or severe abdominal pain, severe constipation, hematemesis, or melena [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Hepatotoxicity
Advise patients and their caregivers to report signs or symptoms of hepatic toxicity to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
Pulmonary Toxicity
Advise patients and their caregivers to report new or worsening cough, fever, or dyspnea to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
Dermatologic Reactions
Advise patients and their caregivers that methotrexate tablets can cause serious skin rash and to immediately contact their healthcare provider for new or worsening skin rash. Advise patients and their caregivers to avoid excessive sun exposure and use sun protection measures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
Renal Toxicity
Advise patients and their caregivers to immediately contact their healthcare provider for signs or symptoms of renal toxicity, such as marked increases or decreases in urinary output [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions with Medication Error
For patients who are prescribed a once weekly dosing regimen, advise patients and caregivers that the recommended dosage is to be taken once weekly as a single dose and that mistakenly taking the recommended weekly dosage once daily has led to fatal adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Neurotoxicity
Advise patients and their caregivers to report new neurological signs or symptoms to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
Secondary Malignancies
Advise patients on the risk of second primary malignancies during treatment with methotrexate tablets [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13)].
Lactation
Instruct women not to breastfeed during treatment with methotrexate tablets and for 1 week after the final dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].
Infertility
Advise females and males of reproductive potential that methotrexate may impair fertility [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16), Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
Drug Interactions
Advise patients and caregivers to inform their healthcare provider of all concomitant medications, including prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products [see Drug Interactions (7)].
Manufactured by:
Eugia Pharma Specialities Limited
Medchal-Malkajgiri District- 500101
India
Manufactured for:
Chartwell RX, LLC.
Congers, NY 10920
L71692
Revised 08/2023
PrintPatient Informationavailable at: www.chartwellpharma.com/our-products
Patient Information
Methotrexate Tablets, USP (meth'' oh trex' ate) |
What is the most important information I should know about methotrexate tablets?
Methotrexate tablets can cause serious side effects that may be severe and lead to death,including: Harm to an unborn baby, including birth defects or death of an unborn baby. Females who can become pregnant:
Males with female partners who are able to become pregnant:
Severe allergic reactions.Severe allergic reactions can happen with methotrexate tablets. Signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction may include:
Get medical help right awayif you develop any of the signs or symptoms of a severe allergic reaction listed above. Decreased blood cell counts.Methotrexate tablets can affect your bone marrow and cause decreases in red blood counts, white blood cell counts, and platelets that can be severe and life-threatening.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of the following:
Tell your healthcare provider if you develop new or worsening diarrhea, vomiting, or mouth sores during treatment with methotrexate tablets. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop high fever, shaking chills (rigors), pain in your stomach-area (abdomen) that will not go away or is severe, severe constipation, if you are vomiting blood or have blood in your stools. Liver problems.Methotrexate tablets can cause severe liver problems including liver scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, and liver failure that may not get better (possibly irreversible) and can cause death.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any signs or symptoms of liver problemsduring treatment with methotrexate tablets, including:
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening symptoms including: cough (especially a dry cough), fever, or trouble breathing. Severe skin reactions.Severe skin reactions can happen with methotrexate tablets and can lead to death.
Tell your healthcare provider right away about any new or worsening skin rash during treatment with methotrexatetablets. Kidney problems. Kidney problems can happen with methotrexatetablets, including kidney failure which can happen suddenly (acute) and may not go away (irreversible). Your healthcare provider will check your kidney function before you start and during treatment with methotrexate tablets. Tell your healthcare provider right awayif you have any signs or symptoms of kidney problems, including:
See “What are the possible side effects of methotrexatetablets”for more information about side effects. |
What is methotrexate?
Methotrexate is a prescription medicine used:
It is not known if methotrexate tablets are safe and effective in treating children with any disease other than ALL as part of a combination regimen used for maintenance therapy of their cancer, and for the treatment of pJIA. It is not known if methotrexate tablets are safe in people with liver problems. |
Do not take methotrexate tablets if you:
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Before taking methotrexatetablets tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take,including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Methotrexate tablets and certain other medicines can affect each other and cause serious side effects. Do not start or change any medicines unless you have talked to your doctor and your doctor has told you it is safe. Know all the medicines that you take and keep a list of them with you at all times to show doctors and pharmacists. |
How should I take methotrexatetablets?
If you are taking methotrexatetablets to treat your cancer:
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What are the possible side effects of methotrexatetablets?
Methotrexate tablets can cause serious side effects that may be severe and lead to death including:
Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop a new fever or if you have any symptoms of infection during treatment with methotrexatetablets.
These are not all the side effects of methotrexate tablets. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800- FDA-1088. |
How should I store methotrexate tablets?
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General information about the safe and effective use of methotrexatetablets.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use methotrexate for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give methotrexate to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. This leaflet summarizes the most important information about methotrexate. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about methotrexate that is written for healthcare professionals. |
What are the ingredients in methotrexate tablets?
Active Ingredient:methotrexate disodium Inactive Ingredients:lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate and pregelatinized starch (maize). PrintPatient Informationat: www.chartwellpharma.com/our-products Manufactured by: Eugia Pharma Specialities Limited Medchal-Malkajgiri District- 500101 India Manufactured for: Chartwell RX, LLC. Congers, NY 10920 For more information, call Chartwell RX, LLC. at 1-845-232-1683. |
This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
L71693
Revised: 08/2023
METHOTREXATE
methotrexate tablet |
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Labeler - Chartwell RX, LLC (079394054) |