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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Methotrexate and alcohol

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Natick, MA

Hi all
I know this has been asked but I don't know how to search subjects on this site. Can you tell me what your Doctors say about alcohol consumption while taking methotrexate? I have been on it for 1 month and have had exactly 3 glasses of wine during that time. Today, the nurse in my Docotrs office said absolutly NO alcohol. With the holidays coming up I am feeling very torn. Lots of sites online mention anywhere from 1-2 a week, to 2 a month etc. I understand no Doctor is going to say… read more

December 17, 2015 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members shared widely varying experiences with alcohol consumption while taking methotrexate, with doctors' guidance ranging from complete... Read more

Members shared widely varying experiences with alcohol consumption while taking methotrexate, with doctors' guidance ranging from complete abstinence to 1-2 drinks per week, though nearly everyone agreed to avoid drinking on the day of taking the medication or within 72 hours before blood work to prevent falsely elevated liver function tests. Several members described practical approaches they've adopted, including spacing drinks strategically around their medication schedule, limiting consumption to special occasions or weekends only, and some doctors even suggesting skipping a week of methotrexate for holiday celebrations, while emphasizing the importance of regular blood monitoring. A recurring theme was the tension between following medical caution and maintaining quality of life, with many members determined not to let RA control every aspect of their lives while still respecting the real risk of liver damage and acknowledging that tolerance varies from person to person.

A myRAteam Member

Interesting article on RA and alcohol. Definitely worth reading.
http://www.everydayhealth.com/rheumatoid-arthri...

December 18, 2015
A myRAteam Member

I drink on occasion - I do stick to wine for the most part. I try not to drink during the week at all. If I go out to dinner or am out with friends I will have a glass of wine. I do not talk about my RD with friends etc and I do not want to make excuses. I will not drink on the day I take MTX....not sure if it really matters. Holidays are coming - enjoy a glass of wine ! There is only so much this disease is going to run my life. I am respectful of the limitation.

December 17, 2015
A myRAteam Member

This is a good article. The term 'moderation' can have a million different connotations - and I think that is why most Dr's will tell you NO alcohol. I think the 1/2 drinks a week as max is reasonable. And, everybody is different - one's liver tolerance is also variable.

December 18, 2015
A myRAteam Member

My aunt is on injectable Metho and also avoids any alcohol consumption leading up to her blood work. She was diagnosed 10 years ago, and has been on Metho as long as I can remember. It doesn't matter if it's injectable or by mouth, the possible side effects specifically increase in liver function is all the same. I took 3 doses, and was immediately taken off because of what my liver levels were. It does and can happen. It's definitely not something to take lightly, or mess around with.

December 17, 2015
A myRAteam Member

@A myRAteam Member - that is very interesting your Dr would go so far to say skip the MTX. I have never heard that before. I am going to specifically bring this up at my next appt. It is so helpful to share all these different opinons - and Dr's opinions ! I think sometimes a Dr will say absolutely no drinking because there is a fine line to what people considerate moderate or very little alcohol. Cheers to Christmas :)

December 17, 2015

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