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A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Toronto, ON

My Family Doctor was discussing all of the Medications I am taking.
He said some of his RA patients stopped taking Methotrexate when they added a Biologic Medication.
Awhile ago I added Xeljanz to my Methotrexate.

So basically I am asking those who started taking Methotrexate and then later added a Biologic or Xeljanz, are you still taking Methotrexate?

February 15, 2021
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Answer Summary

Members shared diverse experiences with continuing or stopping methotrexate after adding biologics or Xeljanz, with many discontinuing it due... Read more

Members shared diverse experiences with continuing or stopping methotrexate after adding biologics or Xeljanz, with many discontinuing it due to liver enzyme elevation, side effects like nausea and hair loss, or lung issues, while others continue taking both medications successfully with good control. Several members described alternative combinations that worked well for them, including Xeljanz with leflunomide, Orencia alone, Enbrel with leflunomide, or methotrexate with CBD oil, with doses ranging widely based on individual tolerance and other health conditions like CLL. A recurring theme was the highly individual nature of RA treatment, the importance of monitoring liver function and side effects, and the need to work closely with doctors to find the right balance between disease control and medication tolerance.

A myRAteam Member

I have been off methotrexate a long time. When i syarted Xeljenz i was still having some inflamation and my doxtor added Arava, which works a lot like methotrexate but with fewer side effects. It has been working great for 2 years now.

February 17, 2021
A myRAteam Member

I take MTX (8 pills a week) and that's all I take other then CBD Oil. I have been doing this for three years now. No side effects that I know of.

February 16, 2021
A myRAteam Member

I stopped taking MTX about a year ago and switched to Leflunomide. I think the MTX was causing bad headaches. I’ve tried so many different drugs I can’t remember what the issue was for sure but I know I had a bad reaction to it. I am starting Xeljanz next week but will stay on the Leflunomide as well. I’ve also continued to take Methylprednisolone daily.

February 16, 2021
A myRAteam Member

I no longer take methotrexate. I've been on orencia auto inject once a week. Having fewer side effects. I'll keep you in my prayers. Love and hugs

February 15, 2021
A myRAteam Member

I have been on methotrexate for 12 years

May 31, 2021

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