Methotrexate

Coka

Hi, I’ve had 5 doses of Methotrexate and not a lot of difference in pain levels.

My last blood tests show my inflammation levels are still rising, does this mean it’s not working? Do I need a higher dose? How long does it take for it to kick in?

jamieA

Hi @Coka

I think the general consensus here is that the medics seem to give at least 3 months before determining whether a drug has worked. In my case I was on Sulfasalazine for 4 months before they added MTX and then a further 5 months before Adalimumab biosimilar Amgevita was added to the mix.

Dennison72

Hello.

I am also in week 6 of Methotrexate, I have had some relief but the stiffness is still an issue. I was told by my Rhumatologist that it could take 3 months or more to feel any difference. Not only that I have to go back to see my Rhumatologist after 3 months where I believe they will adjust the medication if its not doing it job. I hope this helps. Try and stick with it if you can.

Coka

I have been to see the specialist nurse today, she has increased my dosage to 15mg and did say it could take up to 12 weeks for a noticeable difference. Fingers crossed I do!

Sunnytime

Hi

I'm in week 7 of Methotrexate, no difference so far, have to go up to 20 mg in a couple of weeks

The plan is to add in another drug then biologics if not working

For someone that hates taking medication I seem to be doing a good job!I feel desperate with pain which is

interfering with everything, including sleep so am feeling very low atm.It does say on nfs website can take up to 12 weeks at the top dose ( for you) to work

jamieA

Hi @Sunnytime

Like you I really don't like taking medication but the sulfasalazine/MTX/Amgevita combination I'm on now has worked for me and I'm in a far better shape than I was at my worst. I'm not cured by any means but I do have my life back. I did convince my rheumatologist to reduce my sulfasalazine in February but I then went on to have probably the worst flare I've had which sort of proves that the 3 drugs are working together.

N_Corsini

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/60506/methotrexate

Hi there,

I felt like this when I was first prescribed methotrexate. They say it may take up to 12 weeks to notice any improvement but for me it took longer

I was struggling with the tablets and they switched me to metoject and I’m now up to 20mg and Salazapyrin combined.

Contact your nurses at the hospital you are cared under with any and all questions you have. It’s important to not feel ashamed to reach out to your rheumatologist when you are unsure and get the support you need. I am hoping your pain levels subside 🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼

bellydance

Hi there. I have just started Methotrexate and have had 2 doses so far. Both consultant and specialist nurse have said it may take 12 weeks. I have everything crossed it will work and I will get my life back again.

noddingtonpete

Hello @bellydance and welcome to the Community. We are a friendly and supportive group and I hope that will be your experience as well.

I understand that you have been prescribed methotrexate and hoping it will work. Have a look through the following from our website, hopefully it will help provide some extra info.

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

and

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/your-experiences/your-questions-answered/your-questions-on-methotrexate/

Please keep posting and let us know how you are getting on.

With very best wishes,

Peter (moderator)