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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.

New Diagnosis And New Prescriptions

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Truckee, CA

I was just recently diagnosed, was given small doses of prednisone to calm down the immediate flares but they were only week long doses that seemed to help. I was finally able to get in to see a rheumatologist and she immediately prescribed Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine) and methotrexate together. After doing some research, I was quickly turned off of methotrexate, the symptoms and side effects scare me and I'm not keen on the fact that it's also a chemo treatment. Granted, the dose prescribed… read more

November 13, 2021 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone newly diagnosed with RA who felt hesitant about starting methotrexate alongside Plaquenil, reassuring them that... Read more

Members rallied around someone newly diagnosed with RA who felt hesitant about starting methotrexate alongside Plaquenil, reassuring them that combining medications is a common strategy to achieve remission quickly when the disease is aggressive. Several members shared their own experiences with methotrexate, noting that while side effects are possible, many people tolerate it well, and it remains the gold standard of RA treatment, with some emphasizing the importance of early aggressive treatment to prevent permanent joint damage. A recurring theme was trusting your medical team while staying informed, with practical resources like books on biologics, discussions about pregnancy planning with RA medications, and encouragement to explore what works best for your body without letting fear of side effects delay necessary care.

A myRAteam Member

I've had RA for 35 years. My advice? Trust your doctor. Try the medicines! The side effects are rare and the right drug will help you get your life back. Good luck.

November 27, 2021
A myRAteam Member

I have taken methotrexate a couple times probably in total about 3 to 4 years and have been on Hydrochloriquine for years. Since your RA is aggressive they are probably trying to get you into remission as quickly as possible with both things. And then probably considering taken you off something one or the other eventually. I would do whatever it takes to feel better.

November 13, 2021
A myRAteam Member

Hi when I was diagnosed 7 yrs ago....it was so scary. My dr put me on methotrexate.......i noticed it made my hair fall out. Then my dr put me on a biologic,,Embrel...i felt great....and learned ho w give myself a shot twice monthly..it wasnt a big deal..I did not wannt to go back o methotrexate. it scares me.
I can tell yo though it is important to treat it aggressively..especially in the beginning. Otherwise it will try and take over...and once damage is done to a joint...there is no going back.
I dont want to scare you...but this what I did...and in the long run its better...
Also a good medditerainian diet is good...exercise...yoga...
keep in touch !

November 26, 2021
A myRAteam Member

I have not been on either of those meds, but I can relate to feeling overwhelmed by the new diagnosis experience and the very possible serious side effects of many of the meds used to treat RA. I found this book very helpful in understanding my diagnosis and my treatment options: Arthritis Without Pain: The Miracle of TNF Blockers by Zashin and Hesser. It is specifically about biologics, but it has a good overview of the many options for treatment. If nothing else, I needed a solid vocab lesson and I definitely got it. It was about $10 on Amazon, and so worth it.

When I was diagnosed we were also trying for a baby, so that took methotrexate off the table. I am currently on a biologic, pregnant, and doing well, fyi.

November 16, 2021
A myRAteam Member

Methotrexate is considered the gold standard of RA care. Often prescribed with other meds. Plaquenil has helped me a lot over many years. Remember drug side effects sound scary but mostly don't happen and finding the right drug can give you back your life..

November 15, 2021

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