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Drug interactions

Meclofenamate + Methotrexate

Severity: Major

Meclofenamate and Methotrexate: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

NSAIDs such as meclofenamate can raise and prolong methotrexate levels, and deaths from severe hematologic and gastrointestinal toxicity have been reported with high-dose methotrexate. The risk is greatest with high doses and impaired renal function.

What this interaction means in plain words

Meclofenamate and Methotrexate can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

NSAIDs reduce renal perfusion and compete for tubular secretion, decreasing methotrexate renal clearance.

What to do

Avoid with high-dose methotrexate. With low-dose methotrexate, monitor blood counts and renal function and consider an alternative analgesic.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Meclofenamate with Methotrexate?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Meclofenamate and Methotrexate can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. NSAIDs such as meclofenamate can raise and prolong methotrexate levels, and deaths from severe hematologic and gastrointestinal toxicity have been reported with high-dose methotrexate. The risk is greatest with high doses and impaired renal function.

How serious is the interaction between Meclofenamate and Methotrexate?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid with high-dose methotrexate. With low-dose methotrexate, monitor blood counts and renal function and consider an alternative analgesic.

What other medicines interact with Methotrexate?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Methotrexate with, for example, Acitretin, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal. The full list is on the Methotrexate page.

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