MTX and LWBC Count

[Jollyjill]

Anyone out there on MTX (tablets) and experiencing low white blood cell counts? I’ve had this problem on and off for years. My last Rheumy refused to renew my prescription for MTX because of a LWBC count of 3.3 so we had a “parting of the ways” since I really want to sty on MTX because it works so well for me. So I tried to get second opinions and one specialist suggested taking 2 x 1 mg Folic Acid pills/day instead of 1. I don’t know whether this did the trick but my most recent reading was 3.7. The Rheum I am now seeing now told me to keep on the current regime by maintaining my MTX dose of 2.5 mg x 6/week and the increased FA dosage. If you have this problem, you might want to discuss my experience with your Rheumy. Good luck!

[Gilliancheche]

I dont think I have had a WBC as high as 3.7 except when on steroids! It moves between 2.4 and 3.5! My neutrophils hover between 1.3 and 2, mostly nearer 1.3. My consultant insists on 2 weekly blood tests but as I am generally without repeated infection is ok for me to continue with MTX

[StormySeas in reply to Gilliancheche]

Ditto! Mine were very low too, but increased folic was never mentioned. It was only when mine were 1.1 or lower that MTX was temporarily stopped. Since being on RTX with a lowered dose of MTX my levels have recovered slightly. I think some people have AI neutropenia with consistently lower levels than the general population