methotrexate pens: I was diagnosed in 2004 with RA... - NRAS

NRAS

37,219 members46,055 posts

methotrexate pens

106600 profile image
16 Replies

I was diagnosed in 2004 with RA.Taking methotrexate with vial and syringe in Canada. Now in U.K. having to use pen which is marking my legs every week when used.

Any suggestions or anyone with the same problem?

Thanks!

Written by
106600 profile image
106600
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
16 Replies
KittyJ profile image
KittyJ

marking your leg in what way, can you add a photo?

106600 profile image
106600

On both legs- hope it’s clear.

Gnarli profile image
Gnarli

I found I had little round bruise-like marks occasionally. Are you getting a similar mark? I decided to change to my tummy ( avoiding an inch diameter around the navel) because there's a bit more podge to aim for and I've not marked since. I hope that helps?

106600 profile image
106600 in reply toGnarli

Many thanks- will try that next week.

ABwn profile image
ABwn in reply toGnarli

Is it easier to do it in stomach? And any other area that you should avoid in the stomach? Legs are very marked now!

Gnarli profile image
Gnarli in reply toABwn

I am not an expert so this is just my personal experience. I use a Metoject pen and find it easy enough to do. You do need to avoid the navel area. Give it a good margin of over an inch, grab a fold of skin, and there you go. Unless I hit a nerve or a capillary, it doesn't mark or hurt. I have skinny old-lady legs so there's little 'padding' and they looked very marked. If possible, I'd contact your rheumy team and ask their professional opinion.

106600 profile image
106600 in reply toGnarli

Did tell Rheumy nurse she didn’t seem to think it was a big deal!!

Gnarli profile image
Gnarli in reply to106600

I'm glad she's not mine!

ABwn profile image
ABwn in reply toGnarli

Will do. The nurses were the ones who originally showed me how to do it into my legs and alternate every week. Like you I have skinny legs - I think I've developed into apple shape!! Thanks Gnarli.

CagneysMum profile image
CagneysMum

I had the same problem so switched to my tummy. Doesn’t mark other than the occasional bruise if I hit a blood vessel by accident… and doesn’t hurt so much. Good luck 🤞

cyberbarn profile image
cyberbarn

i use Metoject and was advised to rotate between each leg and each side of my tummy avoiding the navel area. I wonder if you are pressing down with the pen too hard, or pinching the skin too hard? It might be a good idea as others have said to have a word with your rheumy team.

Pulfs profile image
Pulfs

I inject in my tummy area as found the leg always left a bruise. Try this instead x

Durrell profile image
Durrell

yes I’m with Gnarli here, I do tummy alternating side weekly, no marks.. hope this helps you in the future..

Amandaazz profile image
Amandaazz

Yes! I had quite bad bruising each time I jabbed. I was doing it first thing in the morning before work, about 8.15am. And I wasn't pinching my thigh. Now changed to evening jab at 6pm, still squashing my thigh and the bruising hardly happens now. I do think the metoject pens are quite heavily spring loaded! The evening jab is also a lot better for me, I do it, have some dinner, go to bed and don't suffer the side effects so badly and get through the day a lot better. Still tired, but deffo a lot better 😊

106600 profile image
106600 in reply toAmandaazz

OK thanks for sharing with me!Will give you’re suggestions a try next week for sure.

Happy5 profile image
Happy5

Were you shown how to use them when prescribed them? The specialist nurse showed and supervised me the first time. Also I reread the leaflet that comes with them, slow myself down , when doing them. My skin is thinner so marks easily, but rare I get a problem .

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Methotrexate pens

I have been using these for over a year with very little problem. But last three times I have got...
Cathy777 profile image

New style methotrexate pens

I used my 1st new injection pen this morning and I can honestly say I found it so much easier...
Bootoo profile image

Injection pens

Is anyone else have problems with injection pens? I keep getting ones that jam and won't inject....

Methotrexate pens not available - nor are syringes!

Has anyone else found this - I've been put back on tablets as my pharmacist can no longer get...

writing pens

Hello everyone , I'm currently finding I'm having an issue with my writing hand , I'm finding that...

Moderation team

See all
Nicola-NRAS profile image
Nicola-NRASAdministrator
KateL-NRAS profile image
KateL-NRASAdministrator
Plankten profile image
PlanktenAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.