Methotrexate

[Nettyp67]

Hi

newly diagnosed with RA in September and I have just been given my prescription for methotrexate and I am a bit worried about the side affects. Any one give me any personal insight please

[Hidden]

I have been on methotrexate for over a year, the benefits far outweigh any side effects. I was experiencing a lot of pain in my hands and feet but now I am mostly pain free. I have regular blood tests which is a safety net. The side effects to watch out for are cold or flu symptoms which I would get checked out. Don't worry about it there is a lot of advice from Arthritis care.

[GordonEdin in reply to Hidden]

I've been on methotrexate for around six years. It made the difference between limping around with painful feet, knees and hands and having no symptoms.

My only side effects have been an occasional slightly queasy stomach and tiredness on the days that I take a dose.

I always take my pills in the morning a few at a time with food and washed down with fruit juice.

Some people do have bad reactions. Make sure you get the blood tests. Prob every two weeks at first.

It may take two or three months before you notice an improvement in your symptoms.

[GordonEdin in reply to GordonEdin]

Interesting that some other respondents say to take the pills before bed! I guess whatever works for you is best but I would certainly take with some food and plenty liquid to wash the pills down.

Folic acid is also mentioned and is normally prescribed to reduce side effects. Note that the prescribed dose is much more than you would get in an over the counter supplement. 5000 microgram rather than 400 in my case. I have always taken the folic acid a day after the mtx.

[Hidden]

I've been on MTX since 2008. Haven't really had too many side effects. Came off it for 1 year 2013, while I had chemo. Returned to it, but had my dose reduced as my liver function got a bit worrying. Highest dose 25mg. now just take 7.5 mg.

[Mirimont]

Hi I've been taking Methotrexate for many years now, I did have a break for a while but went back onto it last year. Have not had any side effects but my maximum dose has been 12.5mg once a week. I once went up to 15mg and my blood test showed my liver was not tolerating this dose. As long as you have a good Rheumatologist who insists on monthly blood test, you should be fine. If you have a consultant who doesn't bother with the blood test then you must insist even if via your Dr. I know a consultant who doesn't do blood tests and find it very worrying after my issue.

Good luck and I hope it works for you

[Nettyp67]

Thanks, read some scary stuff about the drug and was worried about taking it. Just want my old life back 😖

[Geo-Lesley]

Good luck. Everyone is different and reacts differently. I was desperately ill on it but many of friends do brilliantly on it. All you can do is try it and take care of how you are. Avoid refined sugars, rest, gentle exercise and as has been said before regular blood tests.

[Riedenise]

If you go on to NRAS site ( National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society) have released a brilliant video today explaining about Methotrexate. Well worth looking at.

I have been on mtx 5 years now started off on the tablets, now on the pen injection, due to the nausea side effects. But what I'd advise when taking mtx is to take it at bedtime, that way you will sleep through any side effects if you are going to get any.

Good luck my lovely, I know it's scary starting off on new medication, but we have a been newbies to the RA journey, so hopefully one of us should be able to help you with advice and/or support. X Rie

[Riedenise in reply to Riedenise]

I would also suggest you join the NRAS support group on this HU site. X

[Nettyp67]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I'm going to start in the morning so fingers crossed. X

[Helloshelly]

Great advice from Riedenise to take Mtx at bedtime. Drink your water, I take folic acid daily too. Smile! You are taking care of yourself! Have a blessed day!