Catherine 73: What is taking methotrexate like?

Hi . You are not alone in your fear. Most people are nervous the first time they take any PsA medications because they all have huge lists of potential side effects. It is important to remember though that not everyone experiences side effects and that, if the side effects become too overwhelming, you can simply stop taking it. Here is another forum post about Methotrexate that might interest you: https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/forums/methotrexate-2. Unfortunately, many insurance companies require that you try Methotrexate before you can move on to other PsA medications, probably because it is so inexpensive. So your doctor might not be able to prescribe anything different until you have tried it for a few months. I hope this helps and that you get some relief. Best wishes! - Lori (Team Member)

Hey , I know exactly how you feel - I delayed taking methotrexate too because I was absolutely petrified of the side effects, particularly the thought of being sick. I'm thankful that I can say that I have been taking it since April 2018 and I have never been anywhere close to throwing up.


During the 36 hours following my dose, I do get some very mild nausea (which has never been constant and has improved over time, to the point that I don't really notice it anymore) and a general feeling of "grogginess". For me, the nausea from the methotrexate is very different to the nausea that I get when I'm unwell. It's kind of like if you've been on a long car journey with the windows shut. More of a stuffy/fragile kind of feeling, if that makes any sense?!

The methotrexate has made a tremendous difference to my pain levels, and my stamina has also improved since I started taking it. This is all just my personal experience, of course, and we're all different. Unfortunately, at this moment in time the only way to know how you'll respond to a medication is to take it and see. I wish there was another way to tell if a medication will work or cause any side effects. Have you been able to discuss how you're feeling with your consultant?

I also wanted to mention a tip I saw a lot of people online mention, which was to take the methotrexate in the evening so that you'll be sleeping through some of the side effects. So that's what I've been doing since I started taking it and that works well for me. If you have any questions about my personal experience, or you just want to chat, please don't hesitate to reach out. Sending lots of love your way! -Catherine, Community Moderator