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Date: 04.01.2011
From: Daniel

Subject: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

im about to start with this drug but im dubious as to the side effects, any first hand advice would be much appreciated.
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Date: 04.01.2011
From: Lynn B

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi Daniel, I have been on methotrexate just over a year now. I started on the tablets I did have a few side affects mouth ulcers, sickly feeling for a few days after taking it. I used to get constant headaches (not to bad,but you knew you had one)Anyway I started mtx injections a couple of months ago and i feel so much better. What I wanted to say is everyone is different we all react differently to the drug you can only try yourself and see how you go. Make sure you have regular blood tests for your liver function, but no one knows how you are going to be, some people are great and dont have any side affects at all. But hey what have you got to lose!!! if it works for you its a bonus, I know I feel so much better. Take Care.
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Date: 06.01.2011
From: Paula

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hello Daniel

I started to take MTX last May. At first I was on 15mg, then I increased it to 20mg two months ago. I haven't had any side effects at all (touch wood). I was frightened of taking it after what I had read about it, did loads and loads of research on the internet and read up about peoples experiences of it on several forums.

I was given the choice of two different drugs to take and after reading about it I decided to take MTX. I did read on lots of forums reports of people having side effects but when I learnt through my research that it is one of the leading drugs for RA and over 90% of people at sometime takes it, I realised that there would seem to be alot of reports of side effects because larger numbers of people are taking it. the ratio of side effects will probably be the same with a less prescribed drug. I did find and American sit RA Warrior to be very helpful in making my decisions (I would put up a link but in a previous post today they don' work when I do them). Across the top of the home page is a link about MTX and it weighs up the pros and cons of taking it.

Lots of people have very good outcomes from this drug, so think about it and listen to the advice of your consultant.

Love Paula
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Date: 07.01.2011
From: Angela

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi Daniel, I have RA been on MTX 15mg for coming upto two years now. Not had any side effects.I get the occasional high ALT in blood but it corrects itself. Taking it has enabled me to stop all anti inflammatories and painkillers and I now lead a relatively normal life, so I cant complain one bit.
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Date: 09.01.2011
From: Tom H

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hello, I am now 10 weeks into MTX, I'm on 15mg. I have not really had any side effects apart from a bit of nausea. So I guess I'm one of the lucky ones, however I have also had no improvement in my condition so guess I give it another month or so to see if it does anything...
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Date: 10.01.2011
From: phyl.b

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi tom,l have been injecting 20mg weekly for my RH now for 20 years and had no side effects,just make sure you have regular bloods taken and watch alcohol intake(if you like a tipple that is)
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Date: 11.01.2011
From: Tom H

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi, my bloods are monitored carefully after bad reaction to last drugs.

On the alcohol thing, I love a drink always have but didn;t drink for 3 months to get my ALT down before starting drugs and during first 6 weeks. My ALT went up slightly each week to about 65 i think. The week after I went out and had 6 pints of bitter and my ALT went down for the first time. I've been drinking quite alot since then mainly over xmas... is it a bit of a myth?
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Date: 14.01.2011
From: sandra s

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi ive just about to start on mtx but first i have to have a chest x-ray,i need blood tests every 2 weeks and ive got to have a lung function test,is this the same for every one.i have PA for about 1 year, i have been getting terrible pain in my heals,toes,knees and shoulder,not talked on the forum before but have found it very halpful nice to speak to you all
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Date: 19.01.2011
From: sandra s

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi daniel have u started taking mtx yet if so how are you getting on,do you have any side effects ,im due tio start it but a bit scared to start it many thanks sandra s
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Date: 19.01.2011
From: Charlotte

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi. I started mtx 3 weeks ago. I started to feel an improvement in pain this week but not sure if this is the drug or the end of a flare up!

I had a very dizzy monday and felt a bit strange the night i took my last dose but apart from that so far so good which is a step in the right directiom although i know its too early to tell

Its so nice to hear what you are all going through to and that I am not alone! Take care all x
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

i was on sulfasalazine but had an allergic reaction to it and ended up in hospital on a drip on sunday and monday. I actually thought i was dying. Theyve took me off that and are starting me on methotrexate on monday. Im a bit anxious about starting it after my bad experience with the sulfasalazine, has anybody else had a reaction like this to any arthritis meds? Id been on it for 2 weeks then was told to stop it as it was making me dizzy and giving me migranes, then i was told to restart it, i had one tablet and ended up in hospital. Im worried this might happen again with the methotrexate. Its kinda put me off taking medication but i know my PA needs to be controlled.
Also, has anyone noticed a difference in their hair whilst on mtx? I know hair loss is meant to be one of the rarer side effects, but i have a friend who was on it and her hair thinned alot, ive lost my hair once before from stress related alopecha, does this put me at a higher risk? Its just grown back from the last time, haha! Are there other options instead of mtx and sulfasalazine or are all arthritis drugs this toxic and should i just accept im probably guna have some side effects no matter what i take? Thanks guys x
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: Rachel

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi, I'm a newbie. I was diagnosed with RA last August. I also had a really bad reaction to sulphasalazine at the beginning of my second week. I've now been on Methotrexate since just after Christmas, still only on 7.5 mg and aiming for 12 mg per week and so far so good. I haven't noticed much difference yet in terms of pain levels but apart from feeling light headed and tired for a couple of days after taking it have had no major problems. Everyone reacts differently and if it helps its worth it.
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

thanks rachel. Like you say if it helps, its worth a try. I was only diagnosed a couple of months ago and its just starting to sink in that its pretty serious stuff. Oh well i wont know if i dont give it a shot. Hope it starts helping your pain soon xx
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: Rachel

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

I know, its a crappy disease and I still haven't got my head around it. I'm still scared half to death every time I take it! But after feeling so ill before on the sulpha it hasn't been anywhere near as bad as I imagined. Fingers crossed for you x
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

do u mind if i ask how old you are? Just i always thought of arthritis as something only older people got, but being on here has made me realise you can get it at any age. Yeah youre right it is a crappy disease, i never expected id get something like this, i suppose you just always hope to be healthy, but really have no choice. Even when i started getting the pains in my hands and feet, i just thought 'oh it'll just be a bit of arthritis' i didnt realise 'a bit of arthritis' would lead to this xx
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: Rachel

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

I'm 38. I've had aches and pains since I was about 7 or 8 and they always put it down to growing pains. Finally got unbearable last year and I went back to docs and made a fuss. Previous blood results had always come back negative. I'm trying to stay positive and its meant to be early stages which I'm thankful for. x
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

i always thought everyone who had arthritis was like 80. Ive learned so much since i was diagnosed. I think all we can do is stay positive and try to learn to live with it and manage our pain in whatever way we find works for us! Good luck with the mtx, i really hope it works...for both of us xx
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: karen

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi all

Ive been on mtx for roughly 3 months now, I dont have to straighten my fingers out in the morning with my opposite hand anymore! lol

I havent had many side effects, feel a bit sicky the day after & a bit more tired than usual but apart from that Ive been fine, Have noticed my skin is a bit thinner, can see the veins through it easier but a tan will soon sort that out!

I dont have RA as bad as others on here, I had an awful summer but now looking back, the steroid jabs & the meds have kicked it into touch, I almost dont feel like I have RA at all.

Hope you all get on with it, like I have seemd to

Good luck, Karen
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: sandra s

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

just wondered if anyone was prescibed mtx and then got home and thought about it and thendecided not to start taking it,if so what did the rheumy or dr say,im still not certain wether to stert on it or not thank you sandra s
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

i would also like to know if i have a choice in what to take or if i only get offered alternatives if i have bad side effects from their first choice. Is there any other medication that doesnt have such severe side effects as mtx? I suppose if there was, we'd all be on it....
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: karen

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi Sandra & Kerry

I didnt want to take mtx, mainly due to the fact that the doc said I wouldnt be able to drink too much alcohol, not that Im a raving alcoholic but still enjoy a drink ir 2!

Anyway, I opted for sulphasalazine which, on the 2nd week made me very ill.

I decided to give the mtx a try & it works for me, I know its scary looking at all the side effects but if you do get them, just dont take it again.

I over done the booze at Christmas (naughty me) but my bloods were fine so it just shows you can still enjoy yourself, as long as your bloods are done regularly & you dont over do it often, not that Im telling everyone that its a good idea though!

I know some people on here have it injected as they suffer so much with the sickness but there are just as many people who it works for.

Karen x
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: charlotte

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi

I too didn't want methotrexate. Being 30yrs I wanted to have children. So they gave me sulfasalazine to try. After 9 months it wasn't making a difference and the steroid injections were causing problems with my heart.

Consultant said had no choice but to consider trying the methotrexate, which I did.

Am so much happier just being 5 days without pain and working full time even though I get down about the no kids bit. I know people say that after a while i may come off the tabs and could look to start family then but my husband is 14 yrs my senior so time isn't on our side!

Never mind - look to the positive....

My consultant did say if this didn't work we could look at biologics or something - perhaps you could ask for that instead of this drug??
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

when i was in hospital at the beginning of the week after having the reaction to the sulfasalazine, the emergency rhumy who treated me said that they would try me on mtx and if that didnt work not to worry as there were loads of other meds i could try after that....which made me question if i could just try other meds first or if i had to try mtx before trying anything else. Im 25, i got engaged 3 weeks ago and im planning to start a family next year....is it wise to start mtx if i know im going to want to come off it in the not so distant future to start a family? Its all just so much to think about x
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: charlotte

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

yes i was the same we got married in November after getting engaged January 2010 and we were trying for family. But as my hubby said quality of my life needed to come first as it was no use existing like i was most of last year. I now feel like starting to live again

I hope it works out for you
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: Lucy

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Its advised to come off methotrexate for 6 months minimum prior to trying to conceive. Also worth contacting you rheumatologist and a midwife for advice pre-conceptually. I want kids but the fear of coming off the drugs again (I tried when I was 22 and ended up giving up work and the quest for kids as I ended up flaring so badly). Big decisions and not as easy as for others!
I started my methotrexate injections again Monday, I've been avoiding it for months as it makes me feel so crappy! Within 20 mins I wanted to be sick, the only thing I've found that helps is coffee, fags and full fat greasy food lol! None of which are very healthy! Good luck & if you need any midwifery advice I maybe able to help! x
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Date: 20.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

thanks for the advice girls! Its all a bit much to take in! Well i dont want kids until after im married anyway which isnt guna be til 2012 so i suppose its worth going on the drugs until then to try and curb it and stop it getting worse, i cant really go on like this with no medication and struggling with everything i do! Would you say your arthritis is worse when you try to come off the drugs than it was before you started them lucy? I dont like the thought of being so dependant on something that i have worse pains when i try to stop it than i do now. Ive already had to quit my job mind and accepted im not guna be able to do it ever again so at least i wont have that to worry about, lol...thank you again ladies xx
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Date: 21.01.2011
From: sandra s

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi thank you all for your advise i think im going to decide against taking mtx for the time bring,when the rheumy decided to try me on mtx i was having a bad flare things seem to have calmed down a bit still suffering mainly with my feet and heels tho.do you think if i have a flare up again they might let me try a steriod injection and keep on the hydroxy and celebrex instead of comitting to mtx just yet,sorry to go on but im so unsure whats the best x
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Date: 21.01.2011
From: Lucy

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Kerry, I began methotrexate after trying for kids I think. I get confused lol been on so many drugs over the years! Am sure you know that methotrexate is a disease modifying drug. Basically if it works it slows the progression of the disease so its worth trying it and walking down that ailse! Think about yourself and try to get control of your condition before you worry about kids. You're young and have time! I think your arthritis has a mind of its own and you have periods of remission/not to bad/flares so there's no guarantee that you will be the same when you come off the drug as when you went on it. It is a proven drug, unfortunately with side effects but that doesnt mean you'll get them! What medication are you currently on? x
@ Charlotte you still have time to consider children. I'm 32 and still hoping I get chance to try again. It's scary as I tried once and failed and I've been on so many drugs, tests, xrays etc you have to wonder what its done to my eggs!
Ah well! x
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Date: 21.01.2011
From: Tom H

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi guys, firstly to Rachel and Kerry: I had the same reaction to sulpha - neutropena or agrantulocytosis so was nervous about taking MTX, but it's been fine. To be honest i think there has been a bit of scare mongering over this drug, sure some people get bad reactions but they are rare, if you've been prescribed it then you should take it.

Cheers
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Date: 21.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

i was on sulfasalazine but obviously stopped that after it put me in hospital. I was only diagnosed the week before xmas so sulfasalazine was the first disease modifying drug id been tried on. I had injections into my joints before that but had a few wrong diagnosis' over the past year and a half so its taken a while to get any kind of medication. Thanks for the advice, its so much to take in on your own. My family and fiancee are great, but they dont really understand the severity of it all. Im used to relying on him or my parents to make all my major life desicions, but i felt like i was on my own in making this one. I really appreciate having advice from people who understand and have been through it already. I think im going to give the mtx a try, i cant walk more than a few steps at the moment and im in agony from head to toe. Im seeing my rhumy on monday so we shall see how it goes! xx
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Date: 21.01.2011
From: cookie

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi all tried methotrexate last year the moved on to leflnomide neither went well had hair loss dizzy spells and diarrohea told rheumatology nuse the hair loss was a step too far for me personally. Have had ra for 17 years now been on sulph and nsai for most of that time. Got 2 beautiful kids 3 and 8 so there is hope when on all these meds. Interestingly did not need to take any meds at ALL while preggie. Did have huge flare ups 3 months after my girls were born tho :-{
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Date: 22.01.2011
From: charlotte

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Thanks Lucy - it is a wonder what these drugs do to us!

Cookie - my rhumy said the best thing to happen would have been to get preganant as apparantly the arthritis goes away during pregnancy - very odd!

Chin up all x
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Date: 22.01.2011
From: cookie

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi charlotte maybe they should look at hormone treatment for ra!!!! I have to say aches and pains wise while pregnant its the best i have been since it all started
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Date: 24.01.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi
I dont know why it took me so long to find this forum but after reading this thread i'm so glad i have!
I'm taking my first dose of mtx (or crystal meth as i've decided to call it) tonight after months and months of resisting the advice of my rheumy.... and i really really dont want to.
I was diagnosed with RA in July, i developed symptoms in march 2010, 2 months after the birth of my first baby, I'm 32.
I've had a totally crap year, I am (well, i was) a fit, active, healthy, kitesurfing physio, who loves travelling, exercising and sauvignon blanc. This diagnosis has totally knocked the socks off me.
I have failed to make a significant improvement on sulph & plaquenil, i still need the odd boost of steroids and still have stiff swollen, painful fingers, wrists shoulders and feet in the mornings.
Anyway, after having a good xmas and a 2 great 'farewell to sav blanc' weekends, i've decided that now is the time to give the dreaded crystal meth a go.
I do want to have another baby, and have decided i'll take this for a year and after that take 6 months off before trying.....well, thats the plan.
I know i probably developed this as a consequence of my pregnany but if thats the case, i'm glad. My boy is one next week and has brought so much happiness to our lives.He has made me smile when i have been so miserable, and has definitely made me see the positive of some fairly rubbish days.

its good to see from others that the side effects dont always seem as heinous as i imagine, and that the odd wee wine won't kill me!
You'll probably see more of me here now that i've found other people who are in the same (crap) boat.
have a nice day
nic x
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Date: 24.01.2011
From: Paula

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hello Nicola

Sorry to hear that you have the dreaded RA. I had MTX added to my list last June, I was given the choice of two drugs and after doing alot of research I reluctantly decided on MTX. I was told that before they consider you for Anti Tnf's (not that I want to go down that route) you had to fail on two DMARD's first, one of them being MTX. So with that in mind I decided to take it, then if things didn't get any better I had met their requirements for assessment for the next step up on the drugs ladder.

I was put on 15mg at first and even though I had weighed up all the pros and cons of it I was still frightened of popping the pills when it came to putting them in my mouth. I started on 7.5mg and had to work my way up to 15mg one tablet a week. No side affects at all, honest truth. I have increased it now to 20mg and still nothing at all. Wouldn't of minded the loss of appetite bit, I need to loose a few pounds, but nothing at all happened.

I do drink on MTX, have been told it's OK as long as my blood test are alright. My liver function is normally in the high teens, low twenties. Been told it's got to reach the dizzy heights of 70 before alarm bells start to ring. That advice was given to me, so I'm not saying it applies to you but just ask your specialist nurse.

Good luck tonight. Just shut your eyes and think of England.

Paula
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Date: 24.01.2011
From: Dalton

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi Ive been on methotrexate 20mg for over a year now and find it really helps. I combine it with sulphasalazine and also amitriptyline each day. Luckily ive had no side affects at all. Just a bit sickly and headache on the day I take it but them fine. I also have an odd glass of wine here and there and been absolutely fine.
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Date: 24.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

im being started on 10mg...is that a normal dose to start on? X
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Date: 24.01.2011
From: Dalton

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Yep that sounds about right, you move up gradually. Its really made a big difference to me but it does take about 12 weeks to work so just bear with it. x
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Date: 24.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

thanks dalton! Fingers crossed it works for us all! X
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Date: 24.01.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Thanks everyone, just knocked them down the hatch so here goes! very reassuring to get the wine advice.... i'm not a total lush but really dont want RA to interfere with my lifestyle anymore than it already has done :)

crossed (swollen) fingers and toes for no side effects, well I'm braced for some but no hair loss please, and for a speedy response.

sleep well y'all
x
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Date: 24.01.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

good luck nicola! Ill be joining you sometime soon x
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Date: 28.01.2011
From: Nick

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi everyone.
Im so glad I found this forum. I was recently diagnosed with RA after spending the previous 5 years in almost constant pain but refusing to admit to myself that something was seriously wrong. Im getting married next month and my wife to be forced me to go along to the Dr and get tested...Im actually pleased I have now.
It`s friday morning and Ive just taken my first lot of Methotrexate (7.5), sulfasalazine, diclofenac and prednisolone...to be honest I am rather scared. I have to go to work now and Im hoping I dont feel crap.
I just wanted to say that reading everyone elses reports has both put the fear of god into me (haha) and done a great deal to help me put everything into perspective.

Here`s hoping it works!
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Date: 28.01.2011
From: Alexandria

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

I was put on plaquenil a month ago and went downhill fast. I was just prescribed the methotrexate (aka crystal meth. good one nicola). Dr did not tell me all the side effects and when I googled it first thing it says is mthx may cause death. Kept reading to find out it can cause immune system cancer or lung tumors. I have been ill trying to decide if I should take this medication. Then I started another flare tonight (even though dr gave me steroid shot on Tuesday). My hand is swollen, hard to move my fingers and I have this huge painful lump on the top of my hand - (I've never had that symptom before) and I decided I can't afford not to take it. I was just diagnosed a month ago and have had almost near constant flares (goes from my shoulder to my hip to my knee to my hand to my other shoulder, etc). The pain is excruciating and I cannot live this way. So I am praying it goes well.
Is anybody else taking folic acid supplements as well? Dr said it would help relieve some of the side effects (nausea, dizziness, etc.).
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Date: 28.01.2011
From: Paula

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

I think you have to take a step back and look at everything in a different light regarding side effects.

95% of people who have been diagnosed with RA take MTX. It is normally used as the anchor drug and other drugs are added to it. Yes there is side effects (I only read the other day about death being one of them, had to smile at that one), but these reactions are so rare. If it was such a terrible drug I don't think that it would of been approved for us to take it. We are given folic acid to take along side MTX to reduce side effects. I've been taking MTX since the middle of last year, I am taking 20mg at the moment and I haven't had any side effects at all. I first was put on sulph.... (still can't spell it) May 08, I am still taking that (6 a day) along with the MTX and I haven't had any side effects with that either, not even the orange wee.

Hope everything goes well for those just about to take it, I know its all abit frightening, been there got that T Shirt, but I have been told that severe RA is far worse that any side effects of the drugs. We really don't have any option but to take advice from our consultants who know far more about this illness than we do and just trust them and take their advice.

Take Care

Paula
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Date: 28.01.2011
From: sandra

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi i have pa and have just taken my first dose of mtx at 2pm yesterday i took 7.5mg.last night i didnt sleep a wink i was feeling dizzy,sick and terrible pains in my tummy,today i feel washed out sick and had tummy ache again,like you alexandria i have been given folic acid to take 3 days after mtx couldnt cope with these feelings every week,any advice plz, sandra
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Date: 28.01.2011
From: Alexandria

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

There should be an "I've taken methotrexate and survived t-shirt".
:)
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Date: 28.01.2011
From: Alexandria

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

I am starting today and now I'm scared, but since 90% of my job is typing and I can't move my hand and had to take vicodin just to get out of bed, I have no choice.
I am supposed to take 4 - should I start myself at a lower dose? I can see my weekend is already totally shot.
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Date: 28.01.2011
From: Rachel

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi, I started on 2 x 2.5 mg tablets and I'm workingup to 12mg (I had a bad reaction to sulphasalazine). So far apart from feeling wiped out for a couple of days after taking it I've been ok, I haven't noticed much difference to the pain yet though, I'm up to 10mg now. This dose seems a lot lower than everyone else on here and I'm not sure if that was because of how I reacted before. I find it helps if you take it on a full stomach. Good luck!
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Date: 29.01.2011
From: Nick

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

day 2 in the methotrexate house...

so far so good. I started yesterday morning and havent had a single problem. Im hoping it continues this way. :D
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Date: 29.01.2011
From: Alexandria

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

I took 2 out of the 4 prescribed around 5pm (it's 11pm now) and so far so good. Not dead yet :).
I also had such a severe flare and was terribly ill today, dosed up on prednisone and percocet and even though the base of my hand and my fingers are still red and swollen, I am starting to feel so much better now.
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Date: 31.01.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

crystal meth week one....
Still alive, not bald, no anal boils (yet) and even a cheeky wee sav blanc - also had 6 days of dysentery type symptoms and one night of looking down the loo! however i'm writing that off as a coincidental tummy bug.

cystal meth week 2.... here goes :)
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Date: 01.02.2011
From: Jeanette

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

I have been taking Methotrexate now for four months with minimal side effects. I think it is the way the drug is taken that is key to helping. I take mine on a Saturday morning after breakfast - standin up (its important to stay standing) with a glass of water not just a sip! I stay standing for a while afterwards as this stops the drug getting lodged on the way down. I take folic acid 48 hours later and other than an odd headache I have escaped the dreaded list of side effects. It is important to drink plenty of water every day too. This may not work with all but it does for me. Good luck x
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Date: 02.02.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Thanks jeanette, it is so reassuring to hear other peoples experiences of mtx.
I just really didnt want to take it as i'd hoped that the sulph needed a bit more time to work, or that if i gave my body more time to recovery from pregnancy that my symptoms would improve.... and i hoped my RA wouldnt be bad enough for me to need it.
But i had a wee word with myself at the start of jan and figured that it might actually make me feel better.... and nothing else was.
So, new year, positive thinking, and i'm going to get better :)
Good luck, after 4 months, are you noticing improvement?
Nicola x
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Date: 02.02.2011
From: sandra s

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi ive been taking mtx for 2weeks and ive been very tired and funny palpatations in my chest,more so at night,has anyone else felt like this,thanks sandra
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Date: 02.02.2011
From: Lou

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Ive been taking methotrexate for over 12 months 20mg once a week with absolutely no problems at all and it makes a MASSIVE difference to my life - so much better. It takes about 8 - 12 weeks to kick in though so bear with it.
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Date: 02.02.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Sandra, I've not had anything like that, though i did spend most of last week in the bathroom! feeling fine so far, i have gone back to taking 5mg of prednisolone a day as i was feeling lousy and was stuggling to function. steroid probably making me feel a little more spritely, but i'm sleeping better than i have done in ages.
ive been on 7.5mg for first 2 weeks, and am gradually building up every fortnight to a miantenance of 15, so hopefully i tolerate it ok!
Hope you feel better soon
nic x
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Date: 02.02.2011
From: sandra s

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

thanks nicola,what is prenisolone,im new to this,im on 7.5mg mtx a week and 2 celebrex daily plus a pain patch,what sort of arthritis do you have,i have psoriatic,im back to see the nurse on monday so ill mention how i am feeling thanks for the help sandra x
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Date: 02.02.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi Sandra,
prednisolone is a steroid (anti-inflammatory) I have rheumatoid arthritis, developed symptoms last march after having baby and was diagnosed in july. Am also on sulphasalazine and plaquenil.
I dont know much about PA but have a good chat with your nurse, they're there to help so even phone her before monday if you need to....
I work for the NHS and really believe people should make more use of it, I'm straight on the blower to my GP or consultant if I need advice or if i'm feeling crap - there are plenty drugs and treatments out there to help make you feel better,unfortunately they sometimes take aaaages to work!
Good luck! this is all pretty new to me too and its a pretty steep learning curve, my thinking is that its ok feeling rubbish in february....feb is a dismal month anyway. Hopefully by summer, i'll have tweaked the drugs cocktail and be feeling back to myself, and so will you :)
take care
nic
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Date: 03.02.2011
From: sandra s

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi nic thanks for the advice i will have a good chat on mon with the nurse, sometimes i get in the room with her and i forget what i want to ask think i'll write it down first,like you said not to bad feeling rough when it miserable outside,congratulations on your baby,boy or girl?hope your feeling better on meds soon at least youve got a nice distraction in your baby,my daughters 21 this year,she keeps me busy tho still lol speak soon sandra x
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Date: 03.02.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

well, ive been to see my med nurse today to have how and when to take the methotrexate and i asked her if i could go straight onto the injections instead of trying the tablet first. After my bad reaction with the sulfasalazine, paired with the fact that im a really sickley person anyway, i just dont want to risk being more naucious than i am on a daily basis anyway. Im taking gabapentin too which makes me feel dizzy and sicky, i just dont want any more nausia than i already have. After reading peoples experiences on here, it sounds like the injection form has less side effects and would be better for me. Shes going to speak to my rhumy but she said its my choice what i take so it shouldnt be a problem. I should be starting it next week, providing im not pregnant, which theres a small chance i could be...which would completely change my plans, lol! X
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Date: 07.02.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

well it turns out instead of starting methotrexate this week, ill be starting it in 9 months! found out on friday that im pregnant so my pa is going to have to take a back seat for a while!!!
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Date: 07.02.2011
From: Lynn B

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Well Kerry"Congratulations to you".
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Date: 07.02.2011
From: davina

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

lol, well done kerry, what drugs have u been on for ur pa as i want a baby soon and looking at alternatives to methotrexate while waiting for the 6 months to pass.
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Date: 07.02.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

GREAT NEWS! congratulations, I'll look forward to hearing how your pregnancy goes... is this your first? I hope youve been feeling well x
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Date: 07.02.2011
From: x kerry x

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

i was only diagnosed a couple of months ago, they had tried me on sulfasalazine but i had a bad reaction to it, i was due to start methotrexate next week, ive been taking pain killers but havnt been on any disease modifyers yet, apart from 2 weeks on the sulfa. ive been in hospital on a drip since friday, had really bad sickness, i thought arthritis was hard work, didnt realise pregnancy was so hard too!!
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Date: 07.02.2011
From: KayJay

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Kerry Congrats !! I was sick every day for 3 weeks with my 1st daughter [ she's 30 next week ]I wasn't
sick at all with my 2nd and 3rd so it's just your body adjusting to the new hormones. But it is totally different when you have a baby on the way - you know there is a reason for why you feel horrible and at the end look what you will have for all that - a lovely little new baby !! ;0)
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Date: 07.02.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

i was diagnosed a few months after my baby was born and although i had a hideous 6 months with my RA symptoms, the distraction and total happiness that a baby brings helped me get through it. Really hope you're feeling better soon and you can start to enjoy your pregnancy soon. x
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Date: 08.02.2011
From: Doreen

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi Paula, Thanks I am due to start soon, and like yourself want info. You have helped me to make up my mind. Now looking forward to trying
thanks.Doreen
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Date: 08.02.2011
From: kim

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Hi im new got the mtx tablets in august last year was petrified to take them but because my arthritis was getting worse i started taking them 3 weeks ago the first night i took them i came out in a rash all over my body my hubby and i panicked and phoned NHS direct told not to panic and to see what happens next time have taken them twice since then and been fine apart from a little nausea and upset stomach the next day but fine after that the thought of taking these tablets was horrendous but i overcame my fear and gave them a go regards kim
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Date: 08.02.2011
From: sandra s

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

hi kim does mtx help you yet,i started them 2weeks ago like you i was petrified of the side effects but got brave and started them i get a sickly feeling and a thumping headache but im going to give them a chance,what strenght are you on im on 7.5mg and 3 foic acid a week,thanks sandra
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Date: 08.02.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

i took week 3 last night (10mg) and have been feeling fine for the last couple of weeks.... week one was mostly spent in the bathroom but am absolutely fine since. I take mine on a mon night and 5mg of folic acid on a thursday night and get my bloods done on a friday..... my logic was that any side effects should have settled by the weekend and if i do have a wee glass of wine or two at the weekend, my liver has 5 days to recover before i get my blood taken on a friday.
A lot of strategy but i feel like i need to have some control.
I also had the prescription gathering dust for months, i was prescribed it in oct and didnt take it til 24 jan!
Good luck ladies
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Date: 09.02.2011
From: kim

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

HI sandra i started at 7.5mg and have now got to take 10mg and 1 folic acid, after one month i have to take 15mg then after another month they want me to start on 20mg. i have been told that i wont feel any difference till about 12 weeks i have started to get a few headaches but suffer from migraines anyway. my husband was talking with a friend of his last night who has been on MTX for quite a while, and he said after about 8 weeks he woke up feeling great no stiffness at all he felt like a new man. lets hope we all start feeling like that soon. all the best on this message board regards kim
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Date: 13.02.2011
From: Tom H

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

14 weeks in for me now and no improvement, in fact my psoriasis has come back, bit strange??
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Date: 15.02.2011
From: Nick

Subject: Re: HELP methotrexate pros & cons

Into my third week with the methotrexate and sulfasalazine. I just wanted to say to anyone who is worried about starting (as I was) that I havent had a single problem. I`m yet to feel the benefits of course but I havent felt sick etc. Dont worry!
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