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Methotrexate

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Richland, MO

I am on Methotrexate for my RA. Been getting some headaches but seems to help some with the bad swelling I was having. Anyone else have any advice on or about this medicine or how it affected them, Did it help you????

December 27, 2015 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members shared mixed experiences with methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis, with many finding it helpful for reducing joint inflammation and... Read more

Members shared mixed experiences with methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis, with many finding it helpful for reducing joint inflammation and swelling, though effectiveness varied from person to person. Several members described common side effects including headaches, nausea, fatigue, and hair thinning, with practical tips like switching from pills to injections to reduce nausea, drinking plenty of water, taking 1-2mg of folic acid daily (except on methotrexate day), and eating jello with pills. A recurring theme was that while side effects can be challenging and may last a few months before improving, many members found the benefits of reduced inflammation worth managing the symptoms, especially when combined with other medications like prednisone or biologics.

A myRAteam Member

I used to get really nauseated for a couple of days after taking my MTX pills...fatigued as well. I switched to weekly injections and have had no nausea whatsoever! Still tired the next day ( I take it at night)....

December 29, 2015
A myRAteam Member

I also take folic acid every day, except MTX day.

January 10, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Have been on it for 11 years. No problem as long as you're taking prescription folic acid with it. My rheumy added remicade about 8 months later. The combo has been wonderful.

December 30, 2015
A myRAteam Member

I take 8 pills of Methotrexate weekly now for about 13 years & I experience some nausea & fatigue usually the day I take my meds & the day after .. I forgot to add I drink a lot of water when I take my pills & eat jello to help

December 29, 2015 (edited)
A myRAteam Member

I was on prednisone for a long time and I refused it because I was putting on so much weight from it and that doesn't help your joints either so I definitely like the methotrexate without the prednisone. Thank you for your feedback

December 28, 2015

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