MTX Auto-Injections

[Marts911]

I just started the 20mg of MTX injection and was wondering if one of the side effects is sluggishness. I take it at night before bed. Can anyone assist?

[Sharonmcallister]

Hiya, im on the tablet form since oct 2016, problems started about 6wks ago, really bad mouth infection and inflamed gums. Still hasnt cleared up, rheumatologist perscribed folic acid 5 times weekly instead of once. Settled it a bit, now i have pain under my right rib and down my right side, gp has referred me for an ultrasound scan, of which i am awaiting an appointment. I believe the methotrexate has inflamed some of my organs, gall bladder, kidney or liver. The tiredness is unbelievable, could sleep the day long and its a chore most days to find the energy to get out of bed! It will b another 4mnths b4 i c my rheumatologist again to c what alternative in meds i can have. Hope you get sorted out. Take care.

[Marts911 in reply to Sharonmcallister]

Hi Sharon: thank you for your reply. I have been VERY fortunate not to experience what you have described with the exception of the fatigue since starting on the MTX injection. My fatigue (sluggishness) lasted only 24 hours & my pain is VERY minimal. I would encourage you to try and change your diet/food intake to organic or gluten free as I have noticed a vast improvement with my own body's functionality since making the change. In addition I take the following vitamins and Rx Daily: Rheumate (1), Glucosamine DS (3), D3 (2), Dry Eye Assist (2) - pharmaceutical grade omega-3 fish oil, organic flaxseed oil, and antioxidants formulated by Ophthalmologists., and Turmeric/Curcumin (1) . I wish you all the best.

[Sharonmcallister in reply to Marts911]

Hi Marts911, thanks for the update. Yes im concentrating on my diet at the moment, making a few changes. Its a matter of trial and error really, somethings work for some people and not for others. Thats why its always a learning process. Good to hear u getting a happy medium n less pain. Way to go! Hope it continues long in2 the future for you. I take glucosamine and will certainly consider the rest of ur suggestions thanks. Keep well. X

[Marts911 in reply to Sharonmcallister]

So glad you are focusing on the diet aspect (it's not cheap). And I appreciate this community chat and have learned so much as well. You are correct, every person's reaction and pain is so individual let alone the remedy. I believe ethnicity plays a big role in this also -- This is a new journey for me as well (was diagnosed 4-yrs ago). I think I have the world's most wonderful RA doctor and again, it depends on us to be committed to follow-up and follow-through on many parts of the treatment process. As I transition through this I hope to help others navigate through their hardship and struggle with RA, not to mention secondary Sjogren's and other symptoms that come along with it. Don't give up... XO- :O)