I have been taking plaquinil and meloxicam for three years. occasionally adding sulfazine and steroids as needed... my rheumatologist wants me to consider taking methotrexate or starting a biologic, I don't know much about any of these, I have done my research, but honestly think the best research I can do is asking all of you and gaining your perspectives. and whats the difference in taking the methotrexate by pill form or injection?
Good for you. I just think methotrexate long term can be damaging to major organs whereas biologics are not as hard on them. Prednisone is another that should not be used long term. I went straight to biologics and my liver and kidney function numbers are great. Just start on smaller dose of biologic. Just something to think about?
I use Humira for a biologic and would switch for anything. I can honestly tell if I have to go off it like when I had knee surgery. The pain became immense again. Humira really does help and for me NO side effects which was awesome.
i started on the pills and my stomach was so upset til almost time to take again. I starting taking by injection and no stomach upset!
I still.think you should reach out to them. If you have commercial insurance and your copay is something like less than 2500 they write it off. It doesn't hurt
Yes I agree methotrexate is a dangerous drug especially if taken long term or high doses. I took it very short time along with remicade and the mouth sores were horrible. There is an alternative to metotrxate it's called Arava (leflonomide). I half a 20 mg pill d a only but now I have stopped because the price went from about $20 to $200. So far only thing I noticed is more fatigue without it. My Dr doesn't know yet. I go on Sept 10 and we will discuss. I will refuse methotrexate and just pray there is a program to help with cost. Hugs to all my RA sisters!!!
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