extrate 2.5mg tablet - Methotrexate (2.5mg) medicine

Auratrex 2.5mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Zanetaz Medicorp 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 25, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk ⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category This medicine is contraindicated in pregnancy. It can cause fetal harm, including birth defects and fetal death. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after stopping the medicine. Men should also use effective contraception for at least 3 months after stopping. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 25, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat)
  • New or worsening cough or shortness of breath

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is extrate 2.5mg tablet used for?

This medicine contains methotrexate, a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, certain cancers, and other conditions. It works by suppressing the immune system and slowing cell growth. It must be taken exactly as prescribed, with regular blood tests to monitor for side effects.

  • Generic Name: Methotrexate (2.5mg)
  • Manufacturer: Zanetaz Medicorp
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 extrate 2.5mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मेथोट्रेक्सेट नामक सक्रिय तत्व से बनी है और इसका उपयोग रूमेटॉइड गठिया, सोरायसिस, कुछ प्रकार के कैंसर और अन्य स्थितियों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह शरीर की प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली को दबाकर और कोशिकाओं की वृद्धि को धीमा करके काम करती है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर के पर्चे पर ही मिलती है और इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, भूख न लगना, मुंह के छाले, सिरदर्द और थकान शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में हड्डी मज्जा का दमन, जिगर की क्षति, गुर्दे की क्षति, फेफड़ों की सूजन और गंभीर त्वचा प्रतिक्रियाएं शामिल हैं। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को केवल डॉक्टर के पर्चे के अनुसार ही लें। खुराक खुद से न बदलें। नियमित रूप से रक्त परीक्षण करवाएं। शराब का सेवन पूरी तरह बंद कर दें। गर्भावस्था के दौरान इस दवा का सेवन न करें। डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएं। धूप से बचें और सनस्क्रीन का उपयोग करें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 extrate 2.5mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Rheumatoid arthritis","description":"Used to reduce joint pain, inflammation" class="semantic-link" title="Medicines for swelling">swelling, and damage in adults with active rheumatoid arthritis.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Juvenile idiopathic arthritis","description":"Used to treat children with severe juvenile idiopathic arthritis who have not responded to other treatments.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Psoriasis","description":"Used to treat severe psoriasis that has not responded to other therapies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Certain cancers","description":"Used in the treatment of various cancers including breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and lung cancer.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Ectopic pregnancy","description":"Used to treat early ectopic pregnancy in selected cases.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Crohn's disease","description":"Sometimes used to maintain remission in Crohn's disease.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Lupus","description":"Occasionally used to treat systemic lupus erythematosus.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Sarcoidosis","description":"May be used in some cases of sarcoidosis.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Rheumatoid arthritis

Also treats: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Psoriasis, Certain cancers, Ectopic pregnancy

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Methotrexate (2.5mg)
Brand Nameextrate 2.5mg tablet
ManufacturerZanetaz Medicorp
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI NEOPLASTICS
Action ClassAntimetabolite- Methotrexate
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
2
Take it on the same day each week if prescribed weekly.
3
Stay well hydrated throughout the day.
4
Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine.
5
Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
6
Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection immediately.
7
Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after stopping.
8
Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen.
9
Do not receive live vaccines during treatment.
10
Keep all scheduled blood tests and doctor appointments.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Chronic joint pain
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
✅
Skin plaques
This medicine is used for severe psoriasis.
Likely Use

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The bioavailability of methotrexate varies widely among individuals, ranging from about 30% to 90% at low doses. Food may delay absorption slightly but does not significantly affect the overall extent of absorption.
DistributionThis medicine distributes widely into body tissues, including the liver, kidneys, and spleen. It can also cross the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingApproximately 50% of this medicine is bound to plasma proteins, mainly albumin.
MetabolismThis medicine is metabolized in the liver to polyglutamated forms, which are retained in cells and prolong its effects. It is also partially metabolized by intestinal flora.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 3 to 10 hours at low doses, but it can be longer at high doses or in patients with renal impairment.
ExcretionThis medicine is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine by glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. A small amount is excreted in the bile and feces.
BioavailabilityThe bioavailability of this medicine is dose-dependent and varies from about 30% to 90% at low doses, but it decreases at higher doses.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action of this medicine varies depending on the condition being treated. For rheumatoid arthritis, it may take 3 to 6 weeks to see improvement, with full effects after 3 to 6 months. For cancer, effects may be seen within days to weeks.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma levels of this medicine are reached within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action of this medicine depends on the condition and dose. For rheumatoid arthritis, the effects last as long as the medicine is taken regularly. For cancer, effects are related to the dosing schedule.

How It Works

This medicine works by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, which is needed to make folate, a vitamin essential for cell growth and division. By blocking this enzyme, it interferes with the production of DNA and RNA, thereby slowing down the growth of rapidly dividing cells such as cancer cells and immune cells. In autoimmune diseases, this action helps to suppress the overactive immune system and reduce inflammation.

Mechanism Steps

1
Inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase: This medicine binds to and inhibits the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, blocking the conversion of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate.
2
Reduced folate availability: This leads to a decrease in tetrahydrofolate, which is required for the synthesis of thymidylate and purines.
3
Inhibition of DNA synthesis: Without sufficient thymidylate and purines, DNA synthesis is impaired, preventing cell division.
4
Immunosuppression and anti-inflammatory effects: In autoimmune diseases, this results in reduced proliferation of immune cells and decreased inflammation.

💡 How to Take extrate 2.5mg tablet

Strength: 2.5 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3Take it with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
4Take it on the same day each week if prescribed weekly.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless instructed.
6Wash your hands before and after handling the tablet.
7If you accidentally touch the tablet, wash your hands immediately.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dose of this medicine varies widely depending on the condition being treated. For rheumatoid arthritis, the usual starting dose is 7.5 mg to 10 mg once weekly, which may be adjusted based on response and side effects. For psoriasis, similar weekly doses are used. For certain cancers, doses are much higher and are determined by a cancer specialist. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Never adjust the dose without consulting your doctor.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity. Doses may need to be reduced, and monitoring should be more frequent. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with kidney impairment, the dose of this medicine may need to be reduced or the medicine may be contraindicated. Close monitoring of kidney function is required. Consult a doctor for dose adjustments.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with liver impairment, the dose of this medicine may need to be reduced or the medicine may be contraindicated. Regular monitoring of liver function is essential. Consult a doctor for dose adjustments.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum dose varies by indication and is determined by the prescribing doctor. For rheumatoid arthritis, the maximum weekly dose is typically 20-25 mg. For cancer, higher doses may be used under specialist supervision.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of liver damage.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of extrate 2.5mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (up to 10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Common (up to 10%))
Stay hydrated. If vomiting is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Stomach pain (Common (up to 10%))
Take with food. If pain is severe, seek medical advice.
Loss of appetite (Common (up to 10%))
Eat small, frequent meals. Consult a dietitian if needed.
Mouth sores (Common (up to 10%))
Maintain good oral hygiene. Use a soft toothbrush. Consult your doctor if sores are severe.
Headache (Common (up to 10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. If headache is severe or persistent, consult your doctor.
Fatigue (Common (up to 10%))
Get adequate rest. If fatigue interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Bone marrow suppression (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Report any signs of infection, easy bruising, or bleeding immediately. Regular blood tests are required.
Liver damage (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain. Regular liver function tests are needed.
Kidney damage (Rare (<0.1%))
Report decreased urine output or swelling. Regular kidney function tests are needed.
Lung inflammation (pneumonitis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, or fever.
Severe skin reactions (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a rash, blisters, or peeling skin.
Severe allergic reactions (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency help if you experience swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures
Seek immediate medical attention.
Vision changes
Consult an eye specialist promptly.
Severe blood disorders
Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or fatigue immediately.

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
Phenytoin Moderate
Theophylline Moderate
Penicillins Moderate
Folic acid Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
  • Aspirin
  • Probenecid
  • Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
  • Live vaccines

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Corticosteroids
  • Phenytoin
  • Theophylline
  • Penicillins

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be completely avoided while taking this medicine because it increases the risk of liver damage and can worsen side effects. Even moderate alcohol consumption can be harmful.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant","Breastfeeding","Severe liver disease","Severe kidney disease","Blood disorders such as bone marrow hypoplasia","Active infection","Known hypersensitivity to methotrexate"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.","Regular blood tests are required to monitor for side effects.","Avoid alcohol completely.","Do not receive live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after stopping.","Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen.","Report any signs of infection, bleeding, or unusual symptoms immediately.","Do not take NSAIDs or aspirin without consulting your doctor.","Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking.","This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue; avoid driving or operating machinery if affected."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is excreted in breast milk and can cause serious adverse reactions in a nursing infant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe bone marrow suppression, liver damage, and kidney damage. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment may include administration of leucovorin (folinic acid) to counteract the effects of methotrexate, along with supportive care and monitoring of blood counts and organ function.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Consult your doctor if you are unsure.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must only be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Never adjust the dose on your own. You must have regular blood tests to check your blood counts, liver function, and kidney function. Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine, as it increases the risk of liver damage. Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it can cause birth defects. Both men and women should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after stopping the medicine as advised by the doctor. Do not receive any live vaccines while taking this medicine. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen, as this medicine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose; consult your doctor for guidance.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity. Doses may need to be reduced, and monitoring should be more frequent.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine is contraindicated in pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after stopping. Men should use effective contraception for at least 3 months after stopping. Consult your doctor if you are planning pregnancy.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may need to be stopped before surgery due to increased risk of bleeding and infection. Follow your doctor's instructions.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may increase the risk of bleeding and infection. Your dentist may recommend stopping the medicine temporarily before dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
🥗
Regular low-impact exercise like swimming.
😴
Practice good posture.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet.
🧘
Get adequate sleep.
🌞
Avoid smoking and alcohol.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

While taking this medicine, you may experience fatigue or dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel unwell. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods
Reduce processed food intake
Stay well hydrated
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause fatigue or dizziness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities if you are affected. Take regular breaks and manage stress.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Your doctor will decide when to stop based on your condition and response to treatment. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and certain cancers. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver function, and kidney function is essential. Your doctor will adjust the dose or stop the medicine if needed.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Physical therapy

Can complement medicine for chronic pain.

Evidence: Well-established
Dietary changes

Anti-inflammatory diet may help manage symptoms.

Evidence: Limited

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Do not receive live vaccines while taking this medicine. Inactivated vaccines 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

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or cold. If crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old office worker with chronic knee pain
Started this medicine as prescribed for osteoarthritis. Within 2 weeks noticed significant improvement in morning stiffness. Emphasized taking with food to prevent stomach upset.
💡 Lesson: Consistency with prescribed dose and taking with food improves both efficacy and tolerability.
👤 A 60-year-old woman with severe psoriasis
After trying several treatments, she was prescribed this medicine. Her skin lesions improved significantly over 3 months. She had regular blood tests and avoided alcohol. She experienced mild nausea initially, which subsided after taking the medicine with food.
💡 Lesson: Regular monitoring and lifestyle adjustments are key to safe and effective treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: It may take 3 to 6 weeks to see improvement in rheumatoid arthritis, with full effects after 3 to 6 months. For cancer, effects may be seen within days to weeks.

Q: Can I take this medicine if I am pregnant?

A: No, this medicine is contraindicated in pregnancy as it can cause birth defects. Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after stopping.

Q: What should I avoid while taking this medicine?

A: Avoid alcohol, live vaccines, and NSAIDs without consulting your doctor. Also avoid prolonged sun exposure.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for extrate 2.5mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is a painkiller.
    Fact: This medicine is not a painkiller; it is a DMARD that modifies the disease process and takes weeks to work.
  • Myth: This medicine can be taken without blood tests.
    Fact: Regular blood tests are essential to monitor for serious side effects.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe during pregnancy.
    Fact: This medicine can cause birth defects and is contraindicated in pregnancy.
  • Myth: You can drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage and should be avoided completely.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Methotrexate 2.5 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Auratrex 2.5mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Methotrexate","class":"DMARD","primary_use":"Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, cancer","route":"Oral, injection"},{"medicine":"Leflunomide","class":"DMARD","primary_use":"Rheumatoid arthritis","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Hydroxychloroquine","class":"DMARD","primary_use":"Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus","route":"Oral"}]

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