Methotrexate photosensitivity

[MarkC1971]

Hi ,I was on methotrexate for about six months. My new rheumatologist took me off it a month ago and is treating mr with pred only

I developed a rash around my neck and upper chest area which varies from slightly red to very red and angry depending on the weather or heat at any particular time. My research indicated this was a side effect of the methotrexate which I had hoped would subside once I stopped taking it but unfortunately the condition has remained the same.

I have treated it with corticosteroid cream and antihistamines on the advice of my pharmacist but this had no effect. I apply suncream to the area also but has minimal impact.

Has anyone else experienced this side effect and found a treatment for it.

Thanks in advance.

[SnazzyD]

I had this with Pred alone and the only way was to cover up not rely on cream which my skin became allergic to anyway.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I also had it mildly with pred alone. Methotrexate may have intensified the pred effect to allow it to develop initially - that is an adverse effect of using MTX with pred, it doesn't just increase pred's antiinflammatory effect, potentially it increases ALL pred effects.

I found it better to cover it rather than add any creams which seemed to make it worse.

Have you asked the doctor rather than just the pharmacist? Could it be rosacea? It can be very resistent to management.

aad.org/public/diseases/ros...

[Den73]

Hi MarcC1971 so sorry to hear you too are experiencing this unpleasant side effect.I only took 2 dosis of Methatrexate was so unwell and was told by the pharmacist that I was experiencing Methatrexate toxicity, my rheumy insisted I continue taking it, this was after just the first dose of 8 tabs, I stupidly relented snd agreed to only taking half tge dose, same reaction so stopped it, very miffed rheumy told me when I went back for an appointment he wont see me for 6 months and to continue decreasing pred and we will have a telephone conversation in 6 months nevermind how unwell i was with Sjorgens, when I suggested hydroxychloroquine which is the recommended meds for Sjorgens..just ignored me, so its goodbye to him i am in the process of trying to find another rheumatologist, not easy.

I have been suffering with this neck irritation which is getting, but never put the Methatrexate as the possible cause? I too have tried most things but without effect. Feeling very frustrsted that some rheumies just dont listen.

Hopefully someone has a tip for this skin condition. Take care Den

[tiredbutoptimistic]

If you’re in the UK, the very hot weather we’ve had recently could be playing a part in terms of something rubbing on the area/or sweat rash? I have developed a rash just recently that looks like sunburn around my ankles and lower calves. I’ve taken the problem to my GP and he sent me for some blood tests as if it is not to do with the heat, the other possibility is vasculitis.