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Methotrexate Side Effects
from eMedTV.comCommon Side Effects
Methotrexate is a relatively old medication. As is common with older medications, the prescribing information for methotrexate lists only vague information about possible side effects, without listing much information about specific percentages.According to this limited information, some of the most common methotrexate side effects can include:
- Low white blood cell counts (as measured by a blood test)
- High liver enzymes (as measured by a blood test)
- Mouth sores, such as canker sores
- Nausea and vomiting
- "Abdominal distress" (presumably digestive upset)
- A general ill feeling
- Excessive fatigue
- Chills
- Fever
- Dizziness
- Frequent or severe infections.
Other Methotrexate Side Effects
Various other problems have been possibly linked with methotrexate, although it is not entirely clear if these problems are true side effects of methotrexate or are due to other factors, such as coincidence or the underlying condition (such as cancer). These problems that might possibly be related to the drug include (but are not limited to):- Gingivitis
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- A blood clot
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Temporary blindness
- Speech impairment
- Seizures
- Hair loss
- Acne
- Temporary infertility
- Impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction, or ED).
Final Thoughts
You may experience some or none of the methotrexate side effects listed in this article. Unfortunately, there is no way for your healthcare provider to know beforehand if you will have problems with a medicine that you have never tried. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you develop any adverse reactions while taking this product.Also, let your healthcare provider know if you develop something that "just does not seem right." While it may not be related to methotrexate, your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD