The FDA has approved a new liquid form of methotrexate called Jylamvo. Methotrexate is a well known medicine that has been used for decades to treat certain cancers and inflammatory diseases. Jylamvo is an oral solution, which means it is a liquid that you drink. It is approved for adults and children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (a type of blood cancer) as part of maintenance therapy. It is also approved for adults with mycosis fungoides (a type of skin lymphoma) and for adults with relapsed or refractory non Hodgkin lymphoma. In addition, Jylamvo is approved for adults with rheumatoid arthritis, children with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and adults with severe psoriasis.
This approval gives patients a new option. Some people have trouble swallowing tablets or need flexible dosing. The liquid form may be easier to take. However, it is important to know that methotrexate is a strong medicine. It can cause serious side effects, and medication errors have led to deaths. The drug comes with a special syringe to measure the right dose. Patients and caregivers must follow the dosing instructions carefully.
If you or a loved one takes methotrexate, talk to your doctor about whether Jylamvo might be right for you. Do not switch from tablets to this liquid without your doctor's guidance. Your doctor can help you understand the benefits and risks for your specific condition.