Methotrexate side effect of numb fingers

[Greypaws]

Hello, my husband has recently started Methotrexate 20mg for inflammatory arthritis. He has just had his 6th dose. Shortly after taking his first dose he noticed that his finger tips were numb. It’s not a major problem but does affect his fine motor function and he’s very aware of it. It has got slightly worse over the last few weeks.

If this is only a temporary side effect then we are not concerned but if not then it’s a bit more concerning.

I would be grateful if anyone has experienced numb fingers on taking methotrexate could let me know if they have experienced this and if so whether this has continued to get worse or resolve.

[welsh12]

Hi I had numb fingers before Methotrexate ask the Dr I have secondary Raynauds and the index finger was numb for some time before diagnosis.

[AgedCrone]

Do try to speak to your husband’s rheumy nurse… when you first take something like methotrexate your mind can play funny tricks on you hopefully that is all it is!

[KittyJ]

Agree with the others to speak to the rheumy nurse, it may be that inflammation is causing the problems and not the mtx. Mtx can take a few months to work so inflammation can get worse while you’re waiting for that to happen.

[Sheila_G]

I get numb fingertips but I put that down to my underactive thyroid but always check with rheumatology if you are concerned about anything.

[oldtimer2]

It's unlikely to be due to the methotrexate - more likely the inflammatory disease itself. Check with the rheumatology specialist nurse? Might need splinting or exercises for the wrist/hand?

[Greypaws]

Thank you everyone for your responses. We are hoping to speak to the nurse when we can get hold of her. Merry Christmas, Thalia