How quickly does Methotrexate work?

[barbieg]

I started Methotrexate a month ago so I’ve taken 4 doses of only 7.5 mg each but 2 days ago I noticed the pain and stiffness was much less and I could actually use my hands without being in agony. Would Methotrexate work so fast? I was also told to stop the Sulfasalazine that I had taken since being diagnosed 16yrs ago as I was losing so much hair. I had X-rays on my hands and shoulders and have just had a letter from my consultant to say they show Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis. Really shocked about the Osteoporosis. I have to have blood tests on Friday for Vitamin D, bone profile and PTH. Then a DXA Scan, so two questions really. 1, could Methotrexate work so fast and does anyone else have Osteoporosis as I see taking Omeprozole can cause bone thinning? Also I’m wishing everyone a very Happy painfree Christmas and a big thank you to you all. I’ve had a tough year and this site has been such a help to me .

[Mmrr]

Hello and a Merry Christmas to you too ! Yes I noticed an improvement very quickly with methotrexate, within a few doses, but unfortunately I have a lot of side effects and can't maintain a high enough dose but you may be fine.

[oldtimer]

It's good that you are feeling better, which may or may not be due to the methotrexate - or to the usual variation of this disease.

Make the most of it while you are feeling better and get some weight bearing exercise in to improve your bone density!

[popsmith1874]

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you too, I've had great success with the Methetrexate alongside Humira xxx