I need an advice regarding medication switch to methotrexate

[Inthegy]

Hey there guys. Just before I begin to describe my situation, my diagnosis is ANCA vasculitis, which I am fully aware is different from RA yet my treatment is extremely similar and my disease is very rare from what I gathered so I came to this group. I also go to rheumatologist, I'm in my early 20s, currently on imuran plus prednisone and about to switch to methotrexate. So here's my concern: I'm currently just starting a new job which is KPI's based and full time. Whilst I must switch my medication entirely (i was adviced to entirely stop imuran when methotrexate is started by my doc). So it come time to switch, I am running out of other medication too and my new boss will be assessing my performance.. My fear in this situation isn't necessarily the side effects of methotrexate, but the fact that my condition will become worse before it gets better. A part of my condition is my eye bulging out of the socket - literally looks like one eye is coming out. Last time i saw my face like that i had an actual panic attack. I am extremely scared to switch my medication now.. What would you guys reccomend here, should I ask my rheumatologist for more imuran for the time being (they only work mon to fri so i would have to ask for time off work to come in) or should I just switch and talk to my manager about it?

[GinnyE]

It sounds as though the worry of switching meds is coinciding with the stress of a new job. I don’t know how urgently your doctor wants you to switch, but if you can talk to the doctor on Monday and they say it’s ok to wait for a bit until you’ve settled into your new job, then maybe that could be an option. You would have to explain to your manager that you’ve got a doctors appointment. Then when you’re settled you could start to switch, and explain your situation to your manager. You are young to be facing these dilemmas and I would hope those around you at work will be kind and supportive. 🙂

[cathie in reply to GinnyE]

That's exactly what I thought. Best to get used to the new job - and them to you before making such a big switch unless its urgent.

[janmary]

What a tricky and worrying situation to handle. But the advice you need has to come from clinicians. Surely they don’t want you to stop a medication unless they think it’s ineffective for your condition? Hope you can manage to contact them as soon as possible, and best wishes in your new job

[medway-lady]

I'm pANCA too and never heard of it so am interested in this. I do have RA and take AZA and Benepali if that helps although I don't know if it will. Sorry and best of luck.

[oldtimer]

I would consider my health to be more important than the job, as you can't do the job well if your disease is not under control.It's a discussion to have with your new boss I'm afraid.

If you look on the NRAS site there is information there about requirements to adapt the workplace and working conditions for people with Rheumatoid Disease which would be applicable to you also. If you have the discussion with your boss armed with the information about what you are entitled to, it helps (but of course, never use the word 'entitled').

That is, of course, if you are subject to UK law. If not look up what protections you might have.

[Moog73]

Aftenoon Inthergy.Health always needs to come first.

Maybe speak to you new boss and explain the situation, methotrexate will take a couple of months to kick in so see if the doctor can taper you off the steroids a bit longer.

I worked right through after first being diagnosed on building sites.

People don't seem to care about your health struggles, I hope you get more support than I had and wish you all the best.

[Helen-NRAS Moderator]

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