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Methotrexate

By Lisa Fayed, About.com

Updated: April 25, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Name :
Methotrexate
Trade Name(s):
Rheumatrex, Trexall
Drug Type:
Anti-cancer drug, referred as cytotoxic, or antineoplastic
Classification:
Antimetabolite
Uses:
Esophagus, stomach, head and neck, breast and lung cancers. Also treatment for sarcomas, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and gestational trophoblastic cancer.
How It Is Given:
IV, muscular injection, or pill form
Common Side Effects:
Low blood count
Less Common Side Effects:
Diarhea, hair loss, kidney toxicity, skin rash, conjunctivits, loss of fertility
Side Effects That Require Medical Attention:
unusual bleeding or bruising, black or tarry stools, mouth sores, swelling in feet or hands, yellowing of skin or eyes, redness, pain on swallowing, painful urination, coughing up mucus
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