Still waiting to be told to take the methotrexate

Andrea54

It was such a relief to get a diagnosis and a promise of help.

I was sent a prescription for methotrexate and was stunned that the pharmacy in my village had it in stock. That was 25th of July and its still in the packet on a high shelf out of reach of the cat and the dog. I can't take it as I haven't yet had instructions about the blood tests. Feeling trapped and forgotten. Meanwhile pain has returned, of course, to the point of putting my wrist supports on and struggling to do anything.

I had signed up to an app - My Arthritis but something has gone wrong and I can't get in. its on my personal and private iPhone which has face recognition so I am definitely me.

i have retreated back into my black cloud 😞

stickywicket

Actually, in medical waiting times, that's not very long, I'm afraid. However, unfortunately we often have to do our own 'medmin' so I suggest you ring your rheumatology helpline if you have one, failing that your rheumatologist'-s secretary, failing that your GP. Ask what the delay is all about and - very nicely, of course - ask them to tell someone to get their finger out.

furnace01

Real name Dave.

I'm lucky to have a very good Rheumatology Dr. on my side and recently had confirmation that my blood test documents are on my way. I'm going to trial Methotrexate as the potential side effects are pretty scary but I'm aware that many have had good results using this medication. Sulphasalazine isn't cutting the mustard anymore.

I'd suggest trying to contact your specialist through the hospital reception [better still Rheumatalogy reception / admin] or alternately send plenty of e-consults to your GP. As above in fact. Badger them to the point they remember your name is my best advice, in the kindest way of course.

It may also be worth inquiring about help with the mental impact of dealing with Arthritis, its nasty stuff to cope with at the best of times. I've been off work since early April with what I thought was a frozen shoulder, it so happens our little pest Arthr has wriggled in. Feel a bit useless on occasions but there is help out.

I do have Arthr [Rhumatoid] in various other locations which I've been dealing with now for over 16 years. It can make you feel low particularly if pain isn't being managed as well as it could.

anneb82

Hello @furnace01

Welcome the online community and thank you for joining. Thank you also for your lovely comments and for sharing your own situation with us all. Its very nice to see that you are already commenting and sharing what works for you with the other members.

I know that you have not shared your whole story but from what you have shared, I can see that you have had Rheumatoid Arthritis for the last 16 years and you are about to start on Methotrexate as your previous drug was not working for you. You will find many of us here are either currently on methotrexate or have tried it at some point so please do give us a shout if you have any questions. I have attached some information below on methotrexate and information on managing pain which is always handy to have a read through. Please do give them a read when you have a chance.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/treatments/drugs/methotrexate/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/managing-symptoms/managing-your-pain/

Please do let us know how you get on with the new medication and do also continue to comment and share on the community. We are a friendly bunch and are always eager to make new friends.

Take care

Anne (Moderator)

furnace01