Pharmacy First: Sore Throats

All Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians should be aware that a sore throat is a sign of Methotrexate toxicity and any patients on methotrexate present with a sore throat should be referred to their doctor or nurse specialist urgently.

Patients should be advised to seek medical attention from a doctor or nurse specialist for the following:

• Patient should report all symptoms and signs suggestive of blood disorders (e.g. sore throat, bruising and mouth ulcers)
• Patients should report all symptoms and signs suggestive of liver toxicity (e.g. nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, dark urine and jaundice)
• Patient should report any upper abdominal pain as this is an indicator of development of pancreatis