Auratrex 5mg Tablet (methotrexate): Comprehensive Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Fever, chills, or sore throat
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Shortness of breath or persistent cough
- Severe abdominal pain
- Decreased urine output
- Severe mouth sores
- Rash with blisters or peeling skin
- Seizures
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is auratrex 5mg tablet used for?
This medicine is an oral tablet containing methotrexate 5 mg, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain cancers. It works by suppressing the immune system and slowing cell division. It must be taken exactly as prescribed, usually once weekly, with regular blood tests to monitor for side effects.
- Generic Name: Methotrexate
- Manufacturer: Abbott
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 auratrex 5mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा मेथोट्रेक्सेट 5 मिलीग्राम की गोली है, जिसका उपयोग रूमेटॉयड आर्थराइटिस, सोरायसिस, और कुछ प्रकार के कैंसर के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह शरीर की प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली को दबाकर सूजन और दर्द को कम करती है। इसे सप्ताह में एक बार डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार लेना चाहिए। इस दवा को लेते समय नियमित रूप से खून की जांच करानी चाहिए। गर्भवती महिलाओं और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाओं को यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए। शराब का सेवन पूरी तरह से बंद कर दें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, मुंह के छाले, थकान और बालों का पतला होना शामिल है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में अस्थि मज्जा का दबना, लीवर की क्षति, फेफड़ों में सूजन और गुर्दे की क्षति शामिल है। अगर आपको बुखार, आसानी से चोट लगना, खून बहना, पीलिया, या सांस लेने में तकलीफ हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा बहुत शक्तिशाली है और इसे केवल डॉक्टर की सलाह से ही लें। इसे सप्ताह में एक बार ही लें, रोज नहीं। शराब का सेवन बिल्कुल न करें। गर्भावस्था से बचने के लिए प्रभावी गर्भनिरोधक उपाय करें। इस दवा को लेते समय कोई भी नया टीका लगवाने से पहले डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। नियमित रक्त परीक्षण कराते रहें। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के दवा बंद न करें।
💊 auratrex 5mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Rheumatoid arthritis","description":"First-line DMARD that reduces joint inflammation, pain, and prevents joint damage.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Psoriasis","description":"Used for severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis when other treatments fail.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Juvenile idiopathic arthritis","description":"Used in children with severe JIA under specialist care.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Crohn's disease","description":"Used to maintain remission in some patients.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Ectopic pregnancy","description":"Used as a single-dose regimen to terminate early ectopic pregnancy.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Certain cancers","description":"Used in combination chemotherapy for breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and others.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Systemic lupus erythematosus","description":"Sometimes used for mild to moderate lupus symptoms.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Sarcoidosis","description":"May be used for steroid-sparing effect in some cases.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Myasthenia gravis","description":"Occasionally used as an immunosuppressant.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Rheumatoid arthritis
Also treats: Psoriasis, Psoriatic arthritis, Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Crohn's disease, Ectopic pregnancy, Certain cancers
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Methotrexate |
| Brand Name | AuraTrex 5mg Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Abbott |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Antimetabolite- Methotrexate |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container. |
| Shelf Life | Typically 24 months from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the package. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), preventing the conversion of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate. This depletes folate cofactors needed for purine and pyrimidine synthesis, thereby inhibiting DNA and RNA synthesis. It also increases adenosine levels, which has anti-inflammatory effects. In autoimmune diseases, it suppresses lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take auratrex 5mg tablet
Strength: 5 mg immediate-release tablet
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. For rheumatoid arthritis, a common starting dose is 7.5 mg once weekly, which may be increased gradually to a maximum of 20-25 mg weekly. For psoriasis, similar weekly dosing is used. For cancer, doses are much higher and given in specialized regimens. Folic acid 1 mg daily is often prescribed to reduce side effects. Never take this medicine daily unless specifically instructed for cancer treatment. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity. Doses should be adjusted based on renal function and overall health. Close monitoring is required. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, dose reduction is necessary. For creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/min, doses should be reduced or avoided. Consult a nephrologist. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with liver disease, this medicine is contraindicated or should be used with extreme caution and reduced doses. Regular liver function monitoring is mandatory. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | For rheumatoid arthritis, the maximum weekly dose is typically 20-25 mg. For cancer, doses are much higher and determined by oncologist. Never exceed prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of auratrex 5mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| NSAIDs | Major | |
| Aspirin | Major | |
| Probenecid | Major | |
| Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole | Major | |
| Live vaccines | Major | |
| Corticosteroids | Moderate | |
| Penicillins | Moderate | |
| Phenytoin | Moderate | |
| Theophylline | Moderate | |
| Folic acid | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Aspirin
- Probenecid
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
- Live vaccines
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Corticosteroids
- Penicillins
- Phenytoin
- Theophylline
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be completely avoided while taking this medicine because it significantly increases the risk of liver toxicity and may worsen bone marrow suppression.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Pregnancy or planning pregnancy","Breastfeeding","Severe liver disease","Severe kidney disease","Blood dyscrasias (e.g., bone marrow suppression)","Active infection","Alcoholism","Hypersensitivity to methotrexate"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine is a high-alert medication; dosing errors can be fatal.","Take exactly as prescribed, usually once weekly; daily dosing can cause severe toxicity.","Avoid alcohol completely.","Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after stopping (men and women).","Do not receive live vaccines while on this medicine.","Report any signs of infection, bleeding, or liver problems immediately.","Regular blood tests are essential to monitor for toxicity.","Avoid sun exposure; may cause photosensitivity.","Inform your doctor before any surgery or dental procedure.","Do not share this medicine with others."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine is excreted in breast milk and may harm the nursing infant. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose can cause severe bone marrow suppression, liver and kidney damage. Immediate medical attention is required. Treatment includes administration of leucovorin (folinic acid) as antidote, hydration, and supportive care. Hemodialysis may be considered in severe cases.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is within 24 hours of the scheduled time. If more than 24 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose. Consult your doctor if unsure.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine is a high-risk medication requiring regular monitoring. Take it exactly as prescribed, usually once weekly. Do not take extra doses. Avoid alcohol completely, as it increases liver damage risk. Use effective contraception during treatment and for several months after stopping. Do not receive live vaccines while on this medicine. Inform all healthcare providers that you take this medicine before any surgery, dental work, or new prescriptions. Avoid contact with people who have active infections. Wash hands frequently. If you miss a dose, do not double up; follow your doctor's instructions. Keep all follow-up appointments for blood tests.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are at higher risk of bone marrow suppression, liver and kidney toxicity. Doses should be adjusted based on renal function. More frequent monitoring is recommended.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine is contraindicated in pregnancy and should be stopped at least 3 months before attempting conception for women and 6 months for men. Use effective contraception during treatment. Consult your doctor for preconception counseling.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon that you are taking this medicine. It may need to be stopped before surgery due to increased risk of infection and bleeding. Do not restart without your doctor's advice.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may increase risk of bleeding and infection. Your dentist may recommend stopping it temporarily before dental surgery. Do not stop without consulting your prescribing doctor.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Moderate exercise is encouraged, but avoid high-impact activities that stress joints. Consult a physiotherapist for tailored exercises. If you experience increased pain or fatigue, rest and consult your doctor.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause fatigue or dizziness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal work activities with dose adjustments.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can cause flare-ups of your condition. Your doctor may stop it if you develop serious side effects, become pregnant, or if your disease goes into remission.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use may increase the risk of liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and rarely, lymphoma. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver and kidney function is essential. Dose may be adjusted based on response and toxicity. Some patients may require periodic liver biopsies if on long-term therapy with other risk factors.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Can complement medicine for chronic pain and improve joint function.
Evidence: Well-establishedAlternatives like adalimumab or etanercept for those who cannot tolerate methotrexate.
Evidence: Well-establishedAnti-inflammatory diet may help reduce symptoms but not a replacement for medicine.
Evidence: Limited💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Live vaccines should be avoided while on this medicine. Inactivated vaccines are generally safe but may be less effective. Consult your doctor before any vaccination.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use after expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or cold. If traveling across time zones, maintain your weekly schedule; consult your doctor if unsure. Declare it at customs if required. Carry enough supply for your trip and a few extra days.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: It may take 3-6 weeks to see initial improvement, with full benefits after 3-6 months.
A: No, for arthritis it is taken once weekly. Daily dosing can be fatal.
A: Avoid alcohol, live vaccines, and contact with people who have infections.
A: No, it is contraindicated in pregnancy as it can cause birth defects and miscarriage.
A: Yes, folic acid is often prescribed to reduce side effects. Take as directed by your doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for auratrex 5mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
davaindia methotrexate 5mg tabletDavaindia Generic Pharmacy ₹25.00 21.9% CHEAPER
-
mexate 5 tabletZydus Cadila ₹35.23 10.1% COSTLIER
-
psorwin 5mg tabletGlasier Wellness Inc ₹53.00 65.6% COSTLIER
-
neotrexate 5mg tabletGlaxo SmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹57.90 80.9% COSTLIER
-
Trexglo 5mg TabletGlobela Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹58.00 81.3% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug, so it must be very dangerous.
Fact: Methotrexate is used in low doses for autoimmune diseases, where it is generally safe and effective when monitored properly. - Myth: You can take methotrexate daily like other arthritis medicines.
Fact: Methotrexate for arthritis is taken once weekly. Daily dosing can be fatal. - Myth: Methotrexate causes immediate pain relief.
Fact: It takes several weeks to months to show full effect; it is not a painkiller. - Myth: You can stop methotrexate suddenly without consulting your doctor.
Fact: Stopping suddenly can cause flare-ups. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Methotrexate 5 mg tablet (various manufacturers)
Brand Alternatives
- Auratrex 5mg tablet
- Methotrexate 5mg tablet (generic)