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Methotrexate and co-trimoxazole — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardDrug InteractionsMethotrexate and co-trimoxazoleGPhC CRA

A patient taking weekly methotrexate receives co-trimoxazole for UTI. Folic acid is taken weekly and the FBC was normal 3 weeks ago. What should the pharmacist do?

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Correct answer: CQuery co-trimoxazole because combined antifolate toxicity can suppress marrow

Trimethoprim and co-trimoxazole can cause severe, sometimes fatal marrow suppression with methotrexate through additive antifolate effects and altered handling. A recent normal FBC and routine folic acid do not remove the risk; an alternative antibiotic is needed.

Reference: BNF: methotrexate: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/methotrexate/