coming off MTX: I have recently been told by my doctor... - NRAS

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coming off MTX

WozzaM profile image
6 Replies

I have recently been told by my doctor to come my MTX. I forgot to ask whether I should still be taking the folic acid? Does anyone know? I have been off the MTX for over a month now. Been suffering with regular wisdom tooth infections and flu, just trying to work out how to boost my immune system, along with everyone else on the planet!

answers welcomed!

Thanks

Emma

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WozzaM
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6 Replies
helixhelix profile image
helixhelix

folic acid is to counter the effects of MTX so normally if you stop MTX you stop folic acid too. But since it is just a vitamin and your body excretes it if you don’t need it then you could stay on it until you check with your doctors that there’s no other reason they want you to keep takimg it.

WozzaM profile image
WozzaM in reply to helixhelix

thank you for your help all! Sounds frustrating - hope I don’t get a flare up but will probably stop the folic - thanks again

Bookworm55 profile image
Bookworm55

I’ve just come off mtx and started on leflunomide. I asked my rheumatologist and she said I don’t need folic acid any more - but I’m thinking of taking a couple a week to avoid wasting the ones I’ve got! I will ask the nurse at my appointment next week.

Omzeiler profile image
Omzeiler

My Rheumatologist did stop Folic Acid tabs when she stopped my Methotrexate. helixhelix has excellent and knowledgeable explanation indeed!!

Chrissie1961 profile image
Chrissie1961

I would say exactly same as helixhelix but check with GP

Be careful with using anything that boosts your immune system. RA confuses your immune system into thinking that normal joint tissue is the enemy & that it needs to be attacked. Most RA meds are immunosuppressant in nature which is how the doctors control the disease. If you boost your immune system with supplements, etc. then you risk a chance of inducing a flare because the immune system gets stronger & starts attacking your joints again. It’s a horrible catch 22 situation to be in, suffering with repeat infections & just having to work through it. Being off the Mtx will help you heal faster, but not as fast as we’d like unfortunately 😔

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