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Reditrex

methotrexate
Used for Psoriasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis
Used for Psoriasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis

RediTrex (methotrexate) is considered a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). It's used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA), and severe psoriasis when other treatment options haven't worked well. RediTrex (methotrexate) comes as prefilled syringes, and it's injected under the skin once a week. Side effects include nausea, liver test changes, and skin sensitivity to the sun.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on November 2, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostContraindicationsAlternativesReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is RediTrex (methotrexate)?

What is RediTrex (methotrexate) used for?

  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults

  • Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) in children

  • Psoriasis in adults

How RediTrex (methotrexate) works

RediTrex (methotrexate) is a medication that belongs under the drug class known as antimetabolites. It's also considered a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD).

The way RediTrex (methotrexate) works to treat certain types of arthritis and psoriasis isn't completely clear. Research suggests that it helps lower the activity of the immune system to lessen inflammation. It might also help slow down the growth of skin cells.

Are you looking for information on methotrexate tablets, Otrexup (methotrexate), or Rasuvo (methotrexate) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsRediTrex
Drug ClassAntimetabolite
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of RediTrex (methotrexate)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Other Side Effects

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Rash
  • Itchy skin
  • Hair loss
  • Low white blood cells
Note: Side effects listed here were reported by people who took the oral or injectable version of methotrexate.

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe allergic reaction: rash, trouble breathing, swelling in the face or throat
  • Severe skin reaction: blisters, peeling skin, sores in the mouth, fever
  • Lung problems: trouble breathing, cough, fever
  • Liver damage: stomach pain, nausea, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine
  • Kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, itchy skin, bloody or foamy urine
  • Brain or nerve problems: seizures, headache, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, coordination problems, vision problems
  • Low blood cell counts: tiredness, easy bruising, blood in urine or stool, pale skin
  • Infection: fever, cough, pain while urinating, chills, muscle weakness, vomiting
  • Cancerous tumors

Source: FDA

More on RediTrex (methotrexate) side effects

Methotrexate: Side effects: stomach cramps couch 1349307504

10 Side Effects of Methotrexate You Should Know About

Written by Emmeline C. Academia, PharmD, BCOP

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Blood clot—pain, swelling, or warmth in the leg, shortness of breath, chest pain
  • Dry cough, shortness of breath or trouble breathing
  • Infection—fever, chills, cough, sore throat, wounds that don't heal, pain or trouble when passing urine, general feeling of discomfort or being unwell
  • Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
  • Liver injury—right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusual weakness or fatigue
  • Low red blood cell count—unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness, headache, trouble breathing
  • Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
  • Seizures
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of RediTrex (methotrexate)

thumbs-up

Pros

Only need to take once a week

Good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills

Can keep at room temperature

thumbs-down

Cons

Many potential risks that affect many different parts of the body (e.g., lungs, liver, kidney, skin)

Might require some technique to use the prefilled syringe to inject the medication

Can't use while pregnant or breastfeeding

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for RediTrex (methotrexate)

pharmacist

  • RediTrex (methotrexate) is injected under the skin once a week. Pick a day of the week to inject the medication that's easy for you to remember. You can put reminders on your calendar or use an app on your phone so you don't forget. This medication isn't meant to be used every day; otherwise, it could lead to serious and fatal side effects.

    • During treatment, make sure you get all the lab tests and scans done that your provider ordered to help check that RediTrex (methotrexate) is safe for you. This medication can cause many side effects in different parts of your body that the tests and scans can help detect.

      • RediTrex (methotrexate) can make you feel dizzy or tired. Be sure you know how the medication affects you before driving or operating machinery.

        • RediTrex (methotrexate) can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, raise your risk for sunburns, and even make previous sunburns come back. Try to avoid direct sun exposure. When you go outside, wear sunscreen and clothes that protect your skin. Let your provider know if you get a sunburn or have painful skin during treatment with RediTrex (methotrexate).

          • Before you get any vaccines, let your provider know that you're taking RediTrex (methotrexate). Some vaccines (e.g., live vaccines) might not work as well during treatment. Your providers can make sure the vaccine you're getting is safe for you.

            Tips on how to use RediTrex (methotrexate):

            • Don't try to inject RediTrex (methotrexate) until you've been trained by a healthcare provider. Make sure to review the Instructions for Use, and ask your provider if you have any questions.

              • Before each time you use RediTrex (methotrexate), check to make sure that the solution in the prefilled syringe looks yellow and is free of particles. Air bubbles are normal. Otherwise, use another syringe.

                • Carefully follow the instructions to inject RediTrex (methotrexate). Remove the needle cover only when you're ready to inject. Then, inject the medication under the skin of your stomach or thigh. Make sure to avoid injecting the medication within 2 inches of your belly button or into skin that's bruised, tender, scarred, scaly, red, or hard.

                  • Each RediTrex (methotrexate) prefilled syringe is meant for one-time use. After you've used a syringe, place it in a special sharps container for disposal. Don't throw it away in the trash. This helps prevent needle-stick injuries.

                    More on RediTrex (methotrexate) tips

                    drug interaction methotrexate

                    8 Methotrexate Interactions You Should Know About

                    Written by Emmeline C. Academia, PharmD, BCOP
                    faqs

                    Frequently asked questions about RediTrex (methotrexate)

                    Where is RediTrex (methotrexate) injected?
                    Inject RediTrex (methotrexate) under the skin of your stomach or thigh. Don't inject it within 2 inches of your belly button, in the arm, or in any other areas of your body. Also avoid injecting the medication into skin that's bruised, tender, scarred, scaly, red, or hard. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you have questions about where and how to inject RediTrex (methotrexate).
                    Is RediTrex (methotrexate) a cure?
                    No, RediTrex (methotrexate) isn't a cure for arthritis or psoriasis. But it can help lessen inflammation, relieve symptoms, and slow the progression of your condition. Once you stop taking the medication, it's possible that your symptoms can come back or get worse.
                    Is it safe to drink alcohol with RediTrex (methotrexate)?
                    It's best to avoid drinking alcohol with RediTrex (methotrexate). Alcohol can put you at higher risk for some serious side effects from the medication, such as liver problems. Talk with your provider about your alcohol consumption while you're getting treated with RediTrex (methotrexate). Your provider can give you guidance on how to lessen the amount you drink and stop altogether.
                    What's the difference between RediTrex (methotrexate) and Otrexup (methotrexate)?
                    Both RediTrex (methotrexate) and Otrexup (methotrexate) are once-weekly injections that treat RA, pJIA, and psoriasis. They both contain methotrexate as the active ingredient and work the same way. One difference is that RediTrex (methotrexate) is available in fewer strengths than Otrexup (methotrexate). Another difference is that RediTrex (methotrexate) is available as prefilled syringes, whereas Otrexup (methotrexate) comes as prefilled autoinjectors. The proper technique for using prefilled syringes and autoinjectors to inject the medication is slightly different. Talk with your provider to see which option is right for you.
                    Can I use RediTrex (methotrexate) if I have kidney problems?
                    You might be able to take RediTrex (methotrexate) if you have kidney problems, but make sure to talk to your provider. You'll probably need to follow up with your provider often if you use the medication. Your body gets rid of RediTrex (methotrexate) from its system through your kidneys. So when your kidneys don't work well, the medication can build up in your body and raise your risk for serious side effects. Depending on your kidney function, your provider might lower your dose of RediTrex (methotrexate) or recommend a different medication to keep you safe.
                    Is RediTrex (methotrexate) safe to use during pregnancy?
                    No, RediTrex (methotrexate) isn't safe to use during pregnancy because it can cause serious harm to unborn babies. In fact, you can't use this medication if you're pregnant. If you can have children, you'll need to take a pregnancy test before you start treatment. In addition, if you or your partner can become pregnant, you should use birth control whenever you have sex while you're taking RediTrex (methotrexate). Continue to avoid pregnancy for at least 6 months (for females) and for at least 3 months (for males) after the last dose. Tell your provider right away if you think you're pregnant while you're taking this medication.
                    Can I breastfeed while I'm using RediTrex (methotrexate)?
                    It's recommended that you don't breastfeed while you're getting treated with RediTrex (methotrexate) and for 1 week after your last dose. There's limited data that suggests that mothers who took methotrexate by mouth had low amounts of the medication in their breast milk. We don't know what effect this has on a breastfed baby or on milk supply. But because of the serious risks of the medication, it's best to avoid breastfeeding while you're taking RediTrex (methotrexate). Speak with your provider about other ways to feed your baby, like with formula.
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                    warings-icon

                    What are the risks and warnings for RediTrex (methotrexate)?

                    RediTrex (methotrexate) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                    risk-warning

                    Serious damage to different parts of the body

                    • Risk factors: Peptic ulcer disease | Ulcerative colitis | Heavy alcohol use | Kidney or liver problems| | Diabetes | Higher doses of RediTrex (methotrexate) | Taking RediTrex (methotrexate) for a long time | Taking NSAIDs | Considered obese | Fluid buildup in the body (e.g., stomach, lungs) | Older age

                      RediTrex (methotrexate) can cause many serious problems all over the body that can be fatal. It can put stress on your lungs, digestive tract, liver, kidneys, skin, and nervous system.

                      These problems can happen at any time during treatment, so your provider will follow up with you often. Your provider might also order various lab tests, tissue samples (biopsies), or scans to help check for these problems. Most symptoms can be treated if they're recognized early.

                      Get medical help right away if you have any of the following symptoms.
                      Lung problems: trouble breathing, cough
                      Digestive tract problems: diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, mouth pain or inflammation
                      Liver problems: yellowing of your skin or whites of the eyes, pain in the right side of your stomach, dark urine, vomiting
                      Kidney problems: swelling in your feet or ankles, little or no urine
                      Nerve problems: changes in vision, not able to move one side of your body, confusion, seizure

                      risk-warning

                      Severe allergic and skin reactions

                      Rarely, RediTrex (methotrexate) can cause life-threatening allergic reactions and skin reactions. Get medical help right away if you have trouble breathing, swelling in your face or throat, rash, blisters, peeling skin, red skin, mouth sores, muscle aches, or fever.

                      risk-warning

                      Risk of infections, bleeding, and anemia due to low blood cells

                      • Risk factors: Blood problems | Current infection | Weak immune system

                        RediTrex (methotrexate) can affect your bone marrow and cause your body to make fewer blood cells. This can cause many side effects. It can raise your chance of bleeding and make you more likely to have anemia and get infections. Your healthcare provider will probably ask to have your blood drawn periodically during treatment to check your blood cell counts. Talk to your provider right away if you suddenly have muscle weakness, unexplained bruising or bleeding, or develop a fever.

                        risk-warning

                        Harm to unborn babies

                        • Risk factors: Pregnancy

                          RediTrex (methotrexate) can cause life-threatening harm to an unborn baby if it's taken during pregnancy. For this reason, avoid taking this medication if you're pregnant. If you or your partner can become pregnant, it's important for you to use birth control whenever you have sex during treatment. Continue to avoid becoming pregnant for at least 6 months (for females) and for at least 3 months (for males) after the last dose. Talk to your provider about other options if you become or would like to become pregnant.

                          risk-warning

                          Possible infertility (not able to have children)

                          It's possible for RediTrex (methotrexate) to make it harder for you to have children (a loss of fertility, or infertility). This medication has been linked to low sperm count and menstrual problems. This might not be reversible, so it's important that you discuss the risks with your healthcare provider if you're considering having children in the future.

                          risk-warning

                          Risk of cancer

                          Some people who took low-dose methotrexate by mouth developed certain types of cancer and tumors, such as skin cancers and blood cancers. The risk for cancer with RediTrex (methotrexate) can't be ruled out. Tell your provider if you have an unexplained fever, feel very tired, have swollen lymph nodes in your neck or armpits, or spots or moles on your skin that seem unusual.

                          risk-warning

                          Tumor lysis syndrome

                          Taking methotrexate might cause a serious condition called tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) in people who have certain cancers or tumors. Typically, people who are prescribed RediTrex (methotrexate) for arthritis or psoriasis have a low chance of developing TLS unless they have a known or undiagnosed tumor. Call your provider right away if you have nausea, vomiting, low appetite, tiredness, side pain, muscle cramps, a pounding chest, dark urine, or less urination. These can be symptoms of TLS.

                          More on RediTrex (methotrexate) warnings

                          Methotrexate: Toxicity: headache pills on nightstand 1312767704.jpg

                          The Signs of Methotrexate Toxicity and How It’s Treated

                          Written by Sonja Jacobsen, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP
                          dosage

                          RediTrex (methotrexate) dosage forms

                          The average cost for 1 carton of 4 syringes of 25mg/ml of RediTrex (methotrexate) is $317.25 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 19.53% off the average retail price of $394.26.
                          carton
                          Carton
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          4 syringes of 25mg/ml1 carton$317.25$317.25
                          4 syringes of 7.5mg/0.3ml1 carton$1037.00$1037.00
                          4 syringes of 10mg/0.4ml1 carton$780.75$780.75
                          4 syringes of 12.5mg/0.5ml1 carton$627.00$627.00
                          4 syringes of 15mg/0.6ml1 carton$524.50$524.50
                          4 syringes of 17.5mg/0.7ml1 carton$450.64$450.64
                          4 syringes of 20mg/0.8ml1 carton$395.06$395.06
                          4 syringes of 22.5mg/0.9ml1 carton$351.83$351.83
                          syringe
                          Syringe
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          25mg/ml5 syringes$395.06$79.01
                          7.5mg/0.3ml5 syringes$1293.25$258.65
                          10mg/0.4ml5 syringes$972.94$194.59
                          15mg/0.6ml5 syringes$652.63$130.53
                          17.5mg/0.7ml5 syringes$561.11$112.22
                          20mg/0.8ml5 syringes$492.33$98.47
                          22.5mg/0.9ml5 syringes$438.29$87.66
                          12.5/0.5ml5 syringes$780.75$156.15

                          Typical dosing for RediTrex (methotrexate)

                          • Rheumatoid arthritis in adults: The typical starting dose is 7.5 mg injected under the skin once a week.

                          • Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children: The dose is based on body surface area (BSA), which takes into account weight and height. The typical starting dose is 10 mg/m2 injected under the skin once a week.

                          • Psoriasis in adults: The typical starting dose ranges from 10 mg to 25 mg injected under the skin once a week.

                          Your provider might slowly raise your dose based on how well the medication is working for you.

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                          How much does RediTrex (methotrexate) cost?

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                          contraindications-icon

                          RediTrex (methotrexate) contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because RediTrex (methotrexate) will not be safe for you to take.

                          • Currently pregnant

                          • Alcohol use disorder

                          • Liver problems

                          • Weak immune system

                          • Blood problems (e.g., low platelets, low white blood cells, anemia)

                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to RediTrex (methotrexate)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of RediTrex (methotrexate). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          RediTrex (methotrexate)
                          Used for:

                          • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults

                          • Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) in children

                          • Psoriasis in adults

                          $317.25 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Otrexup (methotrexate)
                          Used for:

                          • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults

                          • Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) in children

                          • Psoriasis in adults

                          $530.40 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Humira (adalimumab)
                          Used for:

                          • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - adults only

                          • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) - people age 2 and older

                          • Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) - adults only

                          • Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) - adults only

                          • Crohn's disease (CD) - people age 6 and older

                          • Ulcerative colitis (UC) - people age 5 and older

                          • Plaque psoriasis - adults only

                          • Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) - people age 12 and older

                          • Uveitis - people age 2 and older

                          $1115.35 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          Benjamin, O., et al. (2023). Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD). StatPearls.

                          Cumberland Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2023). Reditrex (methotrexate) injection, for subcutaneous use [package insert].

                          Czarnecka-Operacz, M., et al. (2014). The possibilities and principles of methotrexate treatment of psoriasis - The updated knowledge. Advances in Dermatology in Allergology.

                          View All References (5)

                          El-Esawy, F. M., et al. (2022). Methotrexate mechanism of action in plaque psoriasis: Something new in the old view. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.

                          Gupta, A., et al. (2018). Tumor lysis syndrome. Journal of the American Medical Association Oncology.

                          Hagihara, M., et al. (2018). Methotrexate-associated intravascular large B-cell lymphoma in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis: A very rare case. Internal Medicine.

                          OrthoInfo. (2022). Juvenile arthritis. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

                          Yan, M. K., et al. (2022). Association between low-dose methotrexate exposure and melanoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Medical Association Dermatology.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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