Don't you just despair at times!?

hurdygurdy
hurdygurdy Member Posts: 21
edited 5. Oct 2010, 02:46 in Living with Arthritis archive
Since being put onto Rituximab, I have been taking methotrexate (so, since late August).

I took this drug when I was first diagnosed, but was taken off it again because it upset my bloods.

However, the consultant (a new consultant as the original one has retired) said I really should try it again, and said to start off on a low dose. The hospital issued the first prescription.

The instructions on the bottle said 3 x 2.5mg tablets once a week, which I duly took.

I ordered a repeat prescription from the GP, which I collected last week. I went to take the drug yesterday and the instructions on the bottle this time says 1 x 2.5mg tablet once a week.

I rang the GP surgery and queried this, and the woman there said that the prescription said 4 x 2.5mg tablets once a week.

She checked the letter to the GP from the hospital and there is no mention of what dose I should be on - just "a low dose".

So I telephoned the consultant's secretary yesterday but only got an answering machine, so have left a message for someone to call me back.

Honestly - three different versions of the same thing. I don't know if I've overdosed or underdosed, or if we can just take an average and hope for the best.

Comments

  • valval
    valval Member Posts: 14,911
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    that awfull you would think they would all know do hope they get back to you soon and let you know what dose try rhummy nurse she might know or find out for you
    val
  • tillytop
    tillytop Member Posts: 3,460
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi Hurdygurdy.

    It's worrying that they can't get their act together, isn't it, specially when talking about something like meth :roll: :

    I would be inclined to stick with the original 7.5 per week until you get clarification, particularly as your consultant didn't discuss increasing with you. With meth, better safe than sorry I'd say.

    How are you doing with the Rituximab? Reallly hope it's helping you.

    Love TIlly x
  • dreamdaisy
    dreamdaisy Member Posts: 31,520
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I concur with tillytop, anywhere between 5 and 7.5mgs is a starter-level dose in my experience. I wish you well. DD
    Have you got the despatches? No, I always walk like this. Eddie Braben