Stopping MTX

sandeelilly

Hi guys,

I need some advice I have been taking MTX for 18 months first tablets now injection.I have lost so much hair I'm practically bald at the front it is now affecting my mental health.

I sent my Consultant a email asking what to do and she said to chat with my nurse, Which I don't see till June! I have stopped the MTX as I need to do something, have I done the right thing? I don't feel too bad but I don't want to lose anymore hair!

Any suggestions would be great

Sandee xxxx

olivia_b

Hey @sandeelilly,

Really sorry to hear you're having a difficult time with your hair loss, when I was on MTX I lost a lot of my hair and found it very difficult to navigate so I fully understand.

It is up to you whether you continue you medication and the only people who can advise properly are the medical professionals but have you tried any hair loss shampoo or supplements to help alongside while you're on MTX?

I took biotin supplements and used hair loss shampoo which really helped and if you have a little research you will be able to find some that are suited to you.

If MTX is helping in terms of keeping your symptoms and pain under control then it may be a matter of trying to find a solution for the hair loss other than coming off of MTX as I'm sure you don't want your condition to get worse.

Of course, I fully understand the struggles when it comes to confidence especially when the medication is the issue but just be careful as you don't want to make yourself sick too.

I hope you do feel better as time goes on and please do keep us updated!

Olivia x

sandeelilly

Thank you Olivia, I have been using hair loss shampoo and metoxin tabs but does not seem to be working

Thanks for the advise xxxxx

MaryL44

Hi @sandeelilly

I'm sorry to hear about how you are feeling.

It's not always a good idea to stop taking medication without discussing with the prescriber. However, I can see that the response from your consultant was a little short and sharp!I know all NHS trust are different but mine does have a facility where I can leave a message to arrange a call back from the Rheumatoid nurse so you may be able to do that?

I suggest you contact our Help desk (details at the end of this message). They will not give you any personal medical advice but will possibly have some other ideas about what you should do regarding the hairloss.

Mary