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A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Greenville, MI

Good morning. I had labs yesterday to check my liver and kidney function after taking methotrexate for three and half months. I have a MyChart and my labs came in last night and it showed that my alkaline phosphatase, AST, and ALT were all elevated. Does this mean I will stop taking methotrexate? I will be seeing my rheumatologist on June 28, but that means two more doses prior to the appointment.

June 13, 2023
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Answer Summary

Members shared their experiences with elevated liver enzymes while taking methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis, with many emphasizing that... Read more

Members shared their experiences with elevated liver enzymes while taking methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis, with many emphasizing that doctors often monitor for patterns over time rather than reacting to a single abnormal result, though some described serious complications including severe anemia requiring hospitalization and rheumatoid lung disease that led to stopping the medication. Several members offered practical advice, including contacting the doctor before taking another dose if concerned, asking about rescue medications like leucovorin, checking for interactions with over-the-counter drugs, and taking folic acid supplements to reduce side effects like nausea. A recurring theme was the difficult balance between finding effective treatment and managing side effects, with members encouraging proactive communication with medical teams, trusting personal instincts about what feels safe, and exploring alternative approaches when necessary.

A myRAteam Member

My rheumy told me that he watches for continued changes. He stated that I cannot get upset after one time of having abnormal lab results. He watches for a pattern. Hope this helps.

June 13, 2023
A myRAteam Member

Hopefully your Rheumatologist will review your lab results soon and if concerned will contact you with advice. May also depend if they are mildly elevated or more concerning.

June 13, 2023
A myRAteam Member

**UPDATE** My rheumatologist messaged me and said that my enzymes are elevated and that I will need to be rechecked in 2-3 weeks.

June 15, 2023
A myRAteam Member

My doctor tested liver enzymes after a month and they were good so he continued the Methotrexate. That was all he tested. Shortly after that test, I ended up in the hospital because the Methotrexate caused me to become severely anemic. I was in for a week getting blood transfusions. All my blood levels were way out of wack except my liver tests becauseoftheMethotrexate. Still confused as to why he only checked liver function when the Methotrexate does cause so many other problems in some people. Lucky for me that I went to the ER when I did. It's been 3 months since I stopped Methotrexate and I'm still trying to recover from the 4 doses I had. I would call the doctor before taking another dose if you don't hear from his office first.

June 13, 2023
A myRAteam Member

MumzieStacie- this is why the docs do labs often- to keep on top of changes in our liver, kidneys, blood, pancreas, thyroid etc. If you med is working to stop RA you could take a rest or alter the dosage? It's good to see the doc and discuss the changes. If you take any over the counter drugs- please be sure to mention those too as they can affect your levels as well. My liver enzymes went so high once- it swelled and squeezed the bile duct and I had horrible gallbladder pain. Rushed to hospital. After blood test- I stopped all meds and the levels went down. The liver recovers and heals itself. You will be ok and get regulated soon.

June 13, 2023

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A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Greenville, MI