What is Folotyn? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Feb 14, 2024

Folotyn overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Folotyn

Generic Names:

  • Pralatrexate

Uses:

  • Treats T-cell lymphoma.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antineoplastic Agent

Forms:

  • Injectable

How it’s taken:

  • By injection

What is Folotyn used for?

What form(s) does Folotyn come in?

  • Injectable

What are common Folotyn dosages?

  • Vial 1ml of 20mg/ml

  • Vial 2ml of 40mg/2ml

How to take Folotyn

  • Injection routeMedicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

  • Injection routeYou will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

  • Injection routeYour doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.

  • You will take a folic acid supplement and receive vitamin B12 shots to help prevent some side effects. Your doctor will tell you how much and how often you need these supplements.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

What to do if you miss a dose of Folotyn

Folotyn contraindications - Who shouldn't take Folotyn?

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pralatrexate or if you are pregnant.

Folotyn warnings

  • Injection routeIt is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

  • Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Sores and redness in your mouth, throat, or genital areasSevere skin problems, which could be life-threateningTumor lysis syndromeLiver problems

  • This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

  • Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat

  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet, rapid weight gain

  • Trouble swallowing or eating

  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

Folotyn interactions & what to avoid when taking Folotyn

  • Some foods and medicines can affect how pralatrexate works. Tell your doctor if you also use any of the following: ProbenecidTrimethoprim/sulfamethoxazoleNSAID pain or arthritis medicine (such as aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib)

  • Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Sores and redness in your mouth, throat, or genital areasSevere skin problems, which could be life-threateningTumor lysis syndromeLiver problems

  • This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Folotyn side effects - How does Folotyn make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet, rapid weight gain

  • Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Blistering, peeling, red skin rash

  • Change in how much or how often you urinate

  • Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat

  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

  • Trouble swallowing or eating

  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Tiredness

  • Mild nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting

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