- Methotrexate has been used for RA since the late 80’s. It is the cornerstone for RA treatment and considered to have an impressive safety record.
- Methotrexate is classed as a DMARD, Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drug. It decreases pain and swelling. It can lessen joint damage and consequently long-term disability.
- Methotrexate is taken once a week usually in pill form. The injectable form is reserved for those who don’t tolerate the pill or to extend the effectiveness of the drug. Self-injection is not hard to learn for those who need it. It can be easy to do with a prefilled auto-injector that comes in a variety of doses. The auto-injector is useful for children with JIA, too.
- Methotrexate is frequently paired with other DMARD’s. Plaquenil, an anti-malarial drug is often used. Sometimes sulfasalazine is added, too. Drugs used in combination with methotrexate are usually more effective.
- Methotrexate is also paired with the biologics including Orencia and Rituxan. The biologics become more effective when teamed with methotrexate.
- RA can continue on its destructive path when there are no obvious symptoms. It’s reassuring to know that there are drugs on board slowing the inevitable progression of the disease.
- Nausea and vomiting are the most common side effects and usually dissipate as the body adjusts to it. There are a few who cannot tolerate the drug.
- Fatigue the next day is also common. It is wise to take the Methotrexate on a a weekend or when at home for the next day.
- Blood tests are ordered periodically to assess the impact of methotrexate on the body.
- It takes 12 weeks for methotrexate to become effective. Some see changes at three weeks and some need up to 6 months to be effective.
- On a personal note: I no longer take methotrexate. I developed soft tissue necrosis on radiated breast tissue. It took ten months to heal. Soft tissue necrosis is black box warning number thirteen for methotrexate.
- I have just started a low dose injected Methotrexate. My RA is still not under control after eleven years.
What your need to know about Methotrexate
