aspirin and injections

[roseyx]

Hi,

I am up here on an island in the north waiting for MTX injections to turn up somehow or other, which is causing a stir at the doctors surgery since it's not been done before here; all the complicated coloured bags and initiation ceremonies. I am feeling optimistic that the injections will turn things around enough to actually make a new life with being able to walk and do some things again.

The rheumatologist has said stick to the same dose 20mg.

I have realised that its probably a good idea to try and do something about the inflammation and pain during this time so have been taking 3 aspirins a day which have made a surprisingly big difference to moving and functioning. I thought this was coming in at the least bad end of drugs but when I talked to the GP today she said take the stomach protection drugs as well if you are taking aspirin daily.

Does anyone have thoughts on this?

(I have read many posts on MTX injections being nothing to worry about but only just realised there is actually a needle involved. It had seemed to be more a whole lot of tiny pricks That you hardly noticed. Oh well...)

Rosey

[Ruth12345]

Hi. Beautiful picture. Sounds like you live in a lovely place.

When taking asprin you need to protect the lining of your stomach as it is harsh and can cause bleeding in some people in the stomach. You dont need that as well.

Pleased things are moving positively for you.

All the best.

[roseyx in reply to Ruth12345]

Thank you for your reply. It seems to be clearly a good idea to take the ppi as well and avoid anything further as you say. So I will.

[nomoreheels]

I take an NSAID so also take omeprazole. I'm also on MTX & all have been fine for 8 years. Good luck with the injections, I've been on them 7 years so hopefully you'll find them as effective as I do. Your GP has recommended a ppi because aspirin, paracetamol & other antiinflammatories, NSAIDs & such can cause tum irritation or even ulcers so we need to protect it.

The pic is reminiscent of the Gormley sculptures on Crosby beach! Is it on the IoM?

[roseyx in reply to nomoreheels]

Thank you. Yes better to be careful. injections are suddenly a bit daunting but only the anticipation of actually doing it.

Am I wrong to think that aspirin is a less irritating ( milder ) than naproxen ?

What does IoM mean ?

[nomoreheels in reply to roseyx]

Injecting can be a bit daunting initially but it becomes more normal once you've done a few, promise. Just make sure you flick the plastic tube where the liquid is so it's all at the base of the tube then you're sure to get the whole dose.

All NSAIDs have the potential of irritating the stomach lining, at worst causing ulcers, this is why we're coprescribed a stomach protector like omeprazole. No, aspirin isn't as big an irritant but it still can be because it's acidic. What may be less irritating is dispersible aspirin, have you considered taking them that way instead? Aspirin isn't quite as effective as NSAIDs if your inflammation is widespread or more serious. If they work well on your inflammation I'd think you'd be better remaining on aspirin until or if they become less effective or your Rheumy considers you'd benefit from an NSAID. What we've to bear in mind as well is it's not just outward signs of inflammation we've to pay attention to it can also affect our insides, our heart, lungs etc.

IoM - Isle of Man

Hope this explains & doesn't confuse you!

[roseyx in reply to nomoreheels]

Great, yes I can imagine it soon becomes just part of life.

It's not confusing. It's very helpful.

And no I hadn't thought about dispersible aspirin which sounds a good idea but are you suggesting that with these you would not need the omeprazole ( another name to learn ! )

I think the effect is so noticeable because I haven't been taking anything other than MTX for a few months and it seemed a good idea to start with the least of the anti inflammatories.

I am left to make all of these decisions because the Rheumatologist just suggests the MTX doses. It is following your previous advice suggesting the need take something to try and get more joint movement that I decided to try this. My GP thinks it's a good idea too.

Ah. no it's not IoM its Orkney.

[nomoreheels in reply to roseyx]

I'd be happier if you asked for advice re the need for a stomach protector or not with dispersible aspirin. We're not really in a position to say, I'm sure you understand. Your GP will know though & as he's already said it's a good idea I'm sure he'd prescribe one if he considers it necessary. I guess if your Rheumy is distant your GP will be your 'go to' health professional so it would be a good idea to involve him as much as possible in your RD care?

Ah, we have another member who until relatively recently lived on Orkney. The pics she's posted look lovely & I've seen it on the Beechgrove Garden, it must be a beautiful area to live. I'd love to visit that far north but not sure I could live there having lived on the mainland for so long.

[roseyx in reply to nomoreheels]

Thanks. I do understand and I will ask the GP's advice on this. She is very involved. Yes orkney is beautiful and the weather is wild in winter.

[nomoreheels in reply to roseyx]

That's good she's involved. I guess they have to be, more than ours anyway. Yes, I've seen it can be very windy, gardening's a challenge I've seen!

[Gnarli]

I've just changed to mtx injections and it's fine. A lot less painful than blood tests you hardly notice it. I have to look to make sure the injection is actually going in. I'll wish you the best but am sure you'll be absolutely fine. Hugs

J

[roseyx]

Thank you. That's very kind and reassuring especially the bit about having to look to make sure it actually goes in.