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What side effects and benefits come with the medication, Methotrexate?

Hi! I was just diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis and I'm 65.

For years I suspected that PsA was what I was living with but two doctors didn't make that diagnosis. I'm so happy to have met a perceptive and helpful doctor.

Methotrexate side effects

He's prescribed, Methotrexate, oral, 2.5 mg. I picked up the medication last night but haven't taken it yet because I read all of the side effects and freaked out a bit.

Wondering if folks could please share their experiences using this medication?

Appreciate it!

Marcia


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  1. Hi . I am sure you will get quite a few answers to your question. I am also sure that the responses will be different. One thing to remember is that what works for one does not work for another. What effects one in one way will not affect someone in the same way. The only way you will know how it works for you is to try it. If you do please come back and let us know how it went. Vickie W., Community Moderator

    1. Hi , thank you for sharing with us. I am glad to hear that you finally have a diagnosis and a chance at getting some relief.

      I am taking methotrexate (I think I started it in April 201😎 and I can totally relate to your concerns regarding side effects. I was absolutely petrified to the point that I didn't take the medication for quite a while after it was prescribed. For me personally, it has been nowhere near as bad as I had expected, although as Vickie W. says, we're all different and have varying experiences with this drug.

      The side effects I have personally had are some mild nausea and grogginess over the 36 hours that follow my weekly dose. I have not (yet) had any other issues with this medication. Have you been given folic acid to take too? This is supposed to help mitigate some of the potential side effects. As for the positives, it has helped greatly with my pain and I also have more stamina compared to before I was taking it.

      There is a thread over on our forums where others have shared their experiences with methotrexate, which I thought may be of interest: https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/topic/methotrexate-2/

      I really hope this information is helpful. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions. Will you get an opportunity to chat with your doctor about your concerns? -Catherine, Community Moderator

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