Sulfasalazine

[Tompark]

I recently started on sulfasalazine and have increased dose gradually. Am I supposed to be taking folic acid as well as I heard it inhibits folic acid uptake?

[springcross]

Hi Tompark. I have Methotrexate and was also started on Sulfasalazine four weeks ago and I take Folic Acid six days a week (not on the day I have the Methotrexate). You will get some more replies on here soon but if you go up to Seach HealthUnlocked at the top right and type in Sulfasalazine and Folic Acid, you will get a lot more info on it coming up.

[KittyJ]

Your rheumy is the one who will be able to answer that for you or you could ring your nurse. You would have been given a prescription if they wanted you to take it though 😊

[helixhelix]

Yes, your doctor would have prescribed it if you needed it. Having said that doctors do make mistakes, so always good to take some control of your own treatment. In 10 years on this forum I’ve never read of anyone just on Sulpha getting folic acid (unless vitamin deficient), bit always with Methotrexate.

[Knit12]

I was on sulphasalazine for 20 years. During that time I was only given a course of folic acid maybe three times when it showed up in the bloods that I was deficient in something probably due to diet when I was busy at work.

[Summerrain14]

Hi Tom. I have been on Sulphasalzine for over a year on it’s own and never been prescribed folic acid. Due to start methotrexate this week and have been prescribed folic acid with the methotrexate. Best to check with your rheumy team to be on the safe side. x

[Biofreak]

I take sulpasalazine Tom and have for many years. I have never been prescribed folic acid. But check with your doctor to be on the safe side.

[KaysDad]

As I understand it, folic acid tabs are taken in association with MTX, but I suggest you ask.

[Hidden]

If you're not taking MTX, I don't see that you need to take folic acid, but your rheumatologist is the final authority on this. Don't be afraid to ask her/him, or the nurses if it's easier to reach them.

[Tompark]

Thanks for all your helpful replies. I think it’s MTX that’ needs the folic acid

[Leics]

Yeah I haven’t heard that anyone has been prescribed folic acid when taking ssz only when taking mtx or if a deficiency shows up in your bloods. So I doubt it but if in doubt ask you never know.