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.
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Members shared their experiences with elevated liver enzymes while taking methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis, with many emphasizing that... Read more
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.
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.
**UPDATE** My rheumatologist messaged me and said that my enzymes are elevated and that I will need to be rechecked in 2-3 weeks.
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.
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.