Can I take Warfarin and Methotrexate together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 25 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
Taking methotrexate while on warfarin can significantly increase your risk of bleeding. This might show up as unusual bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or in more serious cases, internal bleeding. It can also cause your blood-clotting tests (INR) to become unstable.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Why this happens
Methotrexate can displace warfarin from the proteins in your blood that normally carry it, leaving more 'active' warfarin to thin your blood. Additionally, methotrexate can sometimes affect how the liver processes warfarin and may cause damage to the lining of the stomach or gut, which increases the risk of a bleed starting.
What you should do
You must speak to your doctor before taking these together. If you are prescribed both, you will need much more frequent blood tests (INR) to monitor how quickly your blood clots. Seek urgent medical help if you notice any signs of bleeding, such as blood in your urine, black tarry stools, or coughing up blood.
Continue reading below
Using other medicines
Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.
Patient picks for Drug interactions

Treatment and medication
Can I take Ibuprofen and Naproxen together?
Taking ibuprofen and naproxen together significantly increases your risk of serious side effects, particularly stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, and kidney problems. It can also make your blood pressure rise and cause fluid retention.

Treatment and medication
Can I take Lions mane and Maitake together?
Both Lion's Mane and Maitake mushrooms may lower blood sugar levels and slow down blood clotting. Taking them together might increase the risk of your blood sugar dropping too low (hypoglycaemia) or increase the chance of bruising and bleeding.
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
25 Jan 2026 | Originally published

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.