Methotrexate

Started taking Methotrexate yesterday....not sure what side effects I’ll have 🤷🏻‍♀️

[MaryF Administrator]

Hi there, do you have a diagnosis for Hughes Syndrome/APS? Are you on the right forum? MaryF

[lupus-support1 Administrator]

Your doctor should have explained to you any side effects. Are you taking MTX orally or injection? The most common side-effect is nausea.

My recommendation is for you to talk to your doctor. I do not advise trawling the Internet because this is likely to cause you more anxiety and confusion.

You haven't said why you are taking MTX. This is important because MTX is used for treating some forms of cancer. The dosage is much higher than doses treating rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus! This is not unusual. There are many cancer drugs which are now used to treat other diseases, but in far lower doses. It usually starts at 7.5 mgs to see if your body can tolerate it. MTX is taken once a week. You should be having blood tests once a month!

Usually, MTX will include a leaflet. You should read this carefully. You can also talk to your pharmacist, when you collect your prescription.

The best thing you should do is to speak to your own doctor because only your doctor knows about your illness.

With good wishes,

Ros

[silemoran]

Hi I am on same drug yes nausea can be a side effect I am on it many years .

[Lettie999]

Nausea and extreme fatigue were my side effects. I was on the tablets so switched to the injection and this improved. I think eventually your body gets used to it any way and the nausea and exhaustion ease.

The advice I was given which helped was to take the methotrexate at night, upon waking in the morning take an ommeprosol to stop the worst of any stomach upset and an ice cold can of Coke really helps with nausea. Good luck