Methotrexate or Azathioprine?

[IsleofWight1]

My diagnosis is UCTD. I’ve been on Hydroxychloriquine for a few years but my condition is worsening.

Consultant has suggested changing to Methotrexate or Azathioprine and he gave me leaflets for each drug so I can have an informed input into which one I’m prescribed. (I love my consultant!)

I know we can all react differently to drugs but has anyone got any easy to read comparisons of these 2? Unfortunately brain fog hinders me from taking in and fully understanding all but straightforward information so I’d really appreciate any help.

[MrsMarigold]

Hi. I’m sorry your lupus is not stable right now. I don’t have any advice as I am in the same situation. I’ve concluded it is inevitable I choose so I am choosing methotrexate. This is one aspect of caring for the disease I dislike so much. Whatever I choose, and perhaps you too, it disrupts the routine I’ve adapted. Good luck

[IsleofWight1 in reply to MrsMarigold]

Thanks. Mrs M for taking the time to reply

[silemoran]

Hi I am on methotrexate many years and it is controlling my disease very well, good luck with your decision.

[MorIlse]

I take plaquenil (hydroxide ) 200

Mg. A day and azathioprine. .25 ( I cut by half now) same condition. No organ compromised so far.

I have had alopepecia twice in the last 4 years. Right now doing well, thank God.

[Hedwig121]

Must be frustrating for you to have a deterioration in you're UCTD. Sounds like you have a good Consultant you some badly needed support.

I have UCTD too and started on Hydroxychloroquine that I was intolerant to it. The Consultant opted for Methotrexate as an alternative. I take tablets once a week and Folic Acid on the other 6 days. Bit of nausea in the beginning but it quickly settled. Did try the injections but not a fan of them.

If you take any other drugs, check to see if they are contra indicated.

Hope things improve soon

[loopy-lou]

Hi, I am sorry to hear you are not stable at the moment. I totally empathise as I am in a similar situation. We are also a similar age. My consultant has recently recommended I take both Methotrexate and Azathioprine together with hydroxychloroquine and steroids. I was previously on methotrexate but unfortunately I didn't get on well with it. I felt completely drugged up and had worse brain fog. This doesn't mean you will be the same. My GP once said you only know when you try something and can stop if it doesn't suit you. Regardless of this I was told to try methotrexate again. I am going to get a second opinion privately. I have been putting it off due to the cost. I wish you lots of luck in finding something that helps you.

[IsleofWight1 in reply to loopy-lou]

It’s so confusing.

I hope you are getting yours sorted and you’re having some better days.

[IsleofWight1]

Thanks everyone for replying. It’s al too confusing………