Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

TRIMETREXATE GLUCURONATE - INJECTION

(try-meh-TREX-ate glue-CURE-oh-nate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Neutrexin

WARNING: Trimetrexate must be used with leucovorin to prevent serious (possibly life-threatening) problems such as kidney or liver problems; infected stomach, intestinal or mouth sores; or a decreased ability to fight infections.

Uses

This medication is used to treat pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). It is also being used in the treatment of certain cancers.

How To Use

This medication is administered by infusion into a vein over 60 to 90 minutes usually once a day for up to 21 days.

Side Effects

Fever, nausea, or fatigue may occur. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: mouth sores, unusual bruising or bleeding, weakness, skin rash, flu-like symptoms, breathing trouble, seizures, rapid/pounding/irregular heartbeat. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver problems, blood disorders, other illnesses (infections), any allergies you may have. Trimetrexate is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Because the possibility exists this drug may harm a nursing infant, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: antibiotics, cimetidine, seizure medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe fatigue or unusual bleeding or busing.

Notes

Leucovorin is a medication given by mouth or injection and must be administered along with trimetrexate and continued for 3 days after. Leucovorin prevents serious side effects of trimetrexate. Laboratory tests will be done periodically while taking this medication to monitor its effects and prevent side effects.

Missed Dose

It is important that each dose be taken as needed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. Skip the missed dose. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Once prepared, this medication is stable at room temperature or under refrigeration for up to 24 hours. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard of any unused medication after that time.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).