starting on methotrexate !!

Mat48

How long did it take you to get onto the injected version DD? And how much difference did you find this made to the side effects? I ask because my GPs seem very reluctant for me to go down this route - they say it's a bit extreme and sure I'll settle down etc don't like the idea of me injecting MTX etc. Mat x

dreamdaisy

I began the injections before I started the humira - about a year before I think. The only side effect I had with the tablets ( in 2003) was a rash but that was deemed sufficient reason to take me off it so I could then waste time with trying lef, cyclosporin, inflximab and enbrel. I think I began the injections in 2008 - I'll check that later. DD

Mat48

Thanks DD - I think the MTX is meant to work more effectively if it doesn't have to pass through the gut but it sounds as if you've tried the full gammet without too much benefit.

My GP seemed to think injecting myself might cause me other problems with the needle jagging and stuff but frankly if it meant I didn't have the nausea to contend with every week then injecting myself would be a price worth paying from where I'm sitting just now. But maybe it has to come from the consultant not the GP.

Do you have any idea why we take MTX once a week as opposed to the other drugs which are mostly taken daily. My GP suggested I ask my rheumy if I could split the dose as although he had never heard of this being done he couldn't see why not as it's systemic and cumulative anyhow? Mat x

dreamdaisy

I know that people split their tablet dose if nausea is a problem - others ensure they always take it with food to avoid that trouble. Everyone is different in what helps and what doesn't.

The injected version is 'stronger' than the tablet type as it does not have to pass through the gut so you can end up with a smaller but still effective dose. As for the frequency I guess it's to do with the toxicity of the med itself. DD

Mat48

I find it interesting that so many people find the MTX works better and are less troubled by side effects when they switch to injections. If this is the case I don't really understand why it isn't taken this way from the start for many of us but my GPs seem to think it's a bit extreme and barbaric to have it by injection so there we go!?

I have heard of people splitting their doses but I read today that it led to a woman dying last year when she was advised by her GP to take her seven tablets as one per day. Apparently we need 6 days for our bodies to recover from the blast it gives the immune system and if you take it in smaller doses but more frequently it effectively breaks down the immune system too much which is potentially dangerous. But if some rheumies favour taking it twice a week then I guess this must have been a one off that's been exagerated perhaps? Mat