I recently started taking 10 mg of methotrexate weekly for RA. I take it on Saturday mornings so that if I am tired the next day is Sunday and I can rest. For the last 3 weeks I noticed that I am getting a headache Sunday night that lasts throughout Monday. Could this be a side effect of the medication? or simply a coincidence?
Methotrexate and Headache?
Question posted by trustingsoul on 29 Aug 2016
Last updated on 12 July 2018
Answers
Lajuana06
8 July 2018
Yes. It is the methotrexate. My husband takes it on Friday mornings and on Saturday midday he gets a headache that lasts thru Sunday. Tylenol or ibuprofen doesn’t help. His doctor said to watch the caffeine but sometimes I give him excedrin and a Benadryl if it’s really bad. But even that doesn’t help if it’s a bad headache.
Cheryl hals
10 July 2018
But does the methotrexate give him relief from his arthritis? If not I feel taking those harsh drugs aren't worth it. I'm due to start injection next week and am terrified as don't want severe headaches etc.
Frans Harts
12 July 2018
It does provide relief. I take folic acid for two days leading up to injection and it helps somewhat.
flwergirl
17 Oct 2016
I'm having the same problem. I have been taking MTX for almost 3 years and the headaches are getting worse. I take MTX on Friday night and by Saturday evening or Sunday morning I'm having bad headaches that make me sick to my stomach, like a migraine. Was just wondering if anyone else was having this reaction or if headache was from something else.
labgrrl
17 Oct 2016
oh yeah, that headache is the MTX. That's what always wipes me out 36 hours after my dose, an old fashioned migraine. :( The good news is migraine drugs and O2 seem to help me.
Frans Harts
2 July 2018
Same issue.
I get a headache within 12 hours of injection which lasts 12 hours. On the flip side, the RA is arrested somewhat.
Cheryl hals
10 July 2018
I'm due to start MTX injection next week but when I read comments like yours it terrifies me. Is it worth suffering headaches and other side effects for only moderate arthritis relief. The pay off for me would have to be total arthritis relief. I feel I'm between a rock and a hard place and not sure what to do.
trustingsoul
10 July 2018
Cheryl, I am taking mtx in pill form so I am not sure as to the side effect of the injection. I can tell you that I have been taking the pills now for 2 years and the good news is that the side effects are much less often! It is only occasionally that I will get the headache and it is not as long in duration. I have noticed a good amount of improvement in my arthritis discomfort as well. Moreover, remember that these meds are not just to treat symptoms, but are also disease modifying drugs so there benefits are greater. The decision as to whether or not to take them is always best made with your own doctor. Good luck to you and feel better!
Related topics
rheumatoid arthritis, headache, methotrexate
Further information
- Methotrexate uses and safety info
- Methotrexate prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Methotrexate (detailed)
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.
