METHOTREXATE'S POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

Like all medicines, the side effects for methotrexate can be troubling or even serious for some people.  And just like with other medicines, the side effects don't occur for everyone. People can take methotrexate for years without ever having a problem. 

Nausea and vomiting are the most common, usually on the day the medicine is taken. Some patients have less nausea and vomiting by using the shot or by dividing the total amount into smaller doses, say taking some in the morning, some in the evening and the rest the next morning.

Other Side Effects Include

• A low white blood cell count, and that can lead to infections
• Anemia with tiredness, pale skin 
• A flu-like feeling with fever, tiredness, dizziness, muscle weakness and abdominal pain
• Liver damage especially if it's used for a long time (look for yellowing of eyes or skin)
• Lung inflammation and rarely, lung scaring
• Mouth sores 
• Loss of memory, especially when used at cancer treatment levels 
• Temporary hair loss
• Kidney problems (with less urine production)

Methotrexate can also cause miscarriages and damage to an unborn infant, so it is usually not recommended for women who could get pregnant or for potential fathers (methotrexate can also temporarily lower sperm counts).