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Methotrexate counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePatient Counselling and Pharmaceutical CareMethotrexate counsellingGPhC CRA

A patient collecting methotrexate 2.5mg tablets for rheumatoid arthritis says the tablets look small and asks whether they are taken like painkillers. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Take the prescribed dose once weekly on the same day each week

Methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis is taken once weekly, and confusion with daily dosing can be fatal. The patient should know the exact day and number of tablets. They should be counselled on folic acid, monitoring and toxicity symptoms such as sore throat, mouth ulcers or bruising. Interacting medicines such as trimethoprim require caution.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS