Signos precoces de muerte: Ficha Técnica de Imeth 22,5 mg/0,9 ml en Jeringa Precargada
IMETH is a medication that is available in different strengths, ranging from 7.5mg to 25mg. It comes in the form of a solution, with each 1ml containing 25mg of methotrexate. The medication is administered via subcutaneous injection using a prefilled syringe.
Therapeutic Indications
IMETH is primarily used for the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients. It is also indicated for the treatment of severe and active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis and psoriasis in adults. Additionally, IMETH can be used for the treatment of mild to moderate Crohn’s disease in adult patients who are refractory or intolerant to thiopurines.
Dosage and Administration
It is important that IMETH is prescribed by experienced physicians who are knowledgeable about the associated risks. Patients who are self-administering should be trained in the correct injection technique. The first injection should be done under the direct supervision of a medical professional.
The recommended initial dose for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is 7.5mg once a week, administered subcutaneously. The dose can be increased based on individual disease activity and patient tolerance, but the maximum weekly dose should not exceed 25mg. The response to treatment is typically seen after 4-8 weeks. Once the desired therapeutic result is achieved, the dose should be gradually reduced to the lowest effective maintenance dose possible.
Contraindications and Precautions
There are certain contraindications and precautions that should be taken into consideration when using IMETH. It is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to methotrexate or any of its excipients. Patients with severe hepatic impairment or significant liver disease caused by alcohol consumption should not use IMETH. It is also not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment.
Caution should be exercised in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, diabetes mellitus, or a history of liver disease. Patients should be closely monitored for signs of toxicity or adverse reactions. IMETH should be used with caution in patients with anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or immunodeficiency. It is important to inform patients about the risks and necessary safety measures associated with IMETH treatment.
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action of IMETH is quite interesting. Methotrexate, the active ingredient in IMETH, is an antimetabolite that inhibits the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. This inhibition disrupts DNA synthesis and cellular replication, leading to its immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties make it effective in the treatment of various conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease.
Safety Measures
During IMETH treatment, patients should avoid consuming alcohol, as it can increase the risk of hepatotoxicity. Regular monitoring of liver function, complete blood count, and renal function is necessary to detect any potential toxicity. Patients should be educated about the symptoms of toxicity and the importance of reporting them immediately to their healthcare provider.
As methotrexate can cause photosensitivity reactions, patients are advised to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposed to sunlight. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least six months after discontinuation, due to the teratogenic effects of methotrexate.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate can potentially interact with various drugs, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, antacids, anticonvulsants, and drugs that affect renal function. Close monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary when using these drugs concurrently with IMETH.
Combining methotrexate with leflunomide may increase the risk of pancitopenia and require dose adjustments. It is also important to avoid the use of live vaccines during methotrexate treatment due to the immunosuppressive effects of the drug. Patients should inform their healthcare providers about all medications they are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, to avoid potential drug interactions.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Regular follow-up visits and laboratory tests are essential when using IMETH. These measures help monitor the patient’s response to treatment, detect any adverse reactions, and adjust the dosage accordingly. Patients should be encouraged to report any symptoms or changes in their condition to their healthcare provider.
Preguntas frecuentes
- ¿Cuáles son las indicaciones de IMETH?
- ¿Cuál es la dosis recomendada de IMETH para la artritis reumatoide?
- ¿Cuáles son las precauciones que se deben tener en cuenta al usar IMETH?
- ¿Cuáles son las interacciones medicamentosas de IMETH?
- ¿Cuáles son las medidas de seguridad durante el tratamiento con IMETH?
IMETH está indicado para el tratamiento de la artritis reumatoide activa en pacientes adultos, la artritis idiopática juvenil poliarticular severa y activa y la psoriasis en adultos, y la enfermedad de Crohn leve a moderada en pacientes adultos refractarios o intolerantes a los tiopurínicos.
La dosis inicial recomendada para el tratamiento de la artritis reumatoide es de 7.5 mg una vez por semana, administrado por vía subcutánea. La dosis puede aumentarse según la actividad de la enfermedad y la tolerancia del paciente, pero la dosis semanal máxima no debe superar los 25 mg.
IMETH está contraindicado en pacientes con hipersensibilidad al metotrexato o a alguno de sus excipientes. No debe usarse en pacientes con enfermedad hepática grave o daño hepático significativo causado por el consumo de alcohol. También está contraindicado en pacientes con insuficiencia renal grave.
IMETH puede interactuar con varios medicamentos, como los antiinflamatorios no esteroides (AINEs), antibióticos, antiácidos, anticonvulsivos y medicamentos que afectan la función renal. Se debe tener precaución y ajustar la dosis cuando se usan estos medicamentos junto con IMETH.
Es importante evitar el consumo de alcohol durante el tratamiento con IMETH, ya que puede aumentar el riesgo de hepatotoxicidad. También se recomienda el uso de protector solar y ropa protectora para prevenir reacciones de fotosensibilidad. Las mujeres en edad fértil deben utilizar métodos anticonceptivos efectivos durante el tratamiento y al menos durante seis meses después de su discontinuación.
Conclusión:
IMETH is an effective medication for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease. It should be used under the guidance of experienced physicians and with precautionary measures to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment. With the right precautions and proper administration, IMETH can provide relief and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from these conditions.
Fuente de la información: Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios cima.aemps.es