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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.

I have been taken of methotrexate and the pain has come back now they want to put me on sulfasalazine worried about side effects.

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
England suffolk
October 2, 2024
 · 
Reactions
A myRAteam Member

Thank you will ask my doctor about this.

October 3, 2024
A myRAteam Member

I too had problems with methotrexate. Sorry to hear you had such severe ones. They put me on Sulfasalazine and I had bad problems with it too. They then switched me to leflunomide and that seems to work better for me. That is something I am having to get used to with RA, switching meds so much. I am learning to be open with my Dr about my pains/side effects so the can find what wors best hopefully.

October 3, 2024
A myRAteam Member

I had too many side effects from Methotrexate, including fibrosis oof the lungs and various other things. My doctors are pretty wonderful -I was on oxygen 24/7 for two years, now have been off of it for two years! although I get very short of breath.
Good luck - have a lovely day.

October 2, 2024
A myRAteam Member

When I came off methotrexate - i was put on sulfasalazine as an interim to biologics due to Lockdown and it did absolutely nothing to help me.
I am starting to gauge a 3-4 year length of any drug for me - after that, something different.
Good luck

October 2, 2024
myRAteam

It's understandable to be concerned about side effects when starting a new medication like sulfasalazine for rheumatoid arthritis. Here are some key points about sulfasalazine based on my knowledge base:

Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Headache

Rarer Side Effects
- Skin rashes
- Itching
- Mouth sores
- Show Full Answer

It's understandable to be concerned about side effects when starting a new medication like sulfasalazine for rheumatoid arthritis. Here are some key points about sulfasalazine based on my knowledge base:

Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Headache

Rarer Side Effects:
- Skin rashes
- Itching
- Mouth sores
- Liver or lung problems

Additional Considerations:
- Sun Sensitivity: Sulfasalazine may make your skin more sensitive to sunburns. Use a high SPF sunblock or avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Orange-colored Urine or Skin: This can occur but is harmless and will go away when you stop taking the medication.
- COVID-19 Risk: Some patients on sulfasalazine may be at greater risk for severe COVID-19 due to its potential to lower white blood cell count and interfere with type 1 interferon production.

Important Actions:
- Discuss Concerns: Always talk to your healthcare provider about any worries you have regarding side effects.
- Monitor for Severe Reactions: If you experience severe rashes or other serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the sources in my knowledge base.

October 2, 2024
COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Essential Updates Read more >

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