... and I have had 2 yeast infections.
Does methotrexate contribute to getting yeast infections? I've been taking 6 pills a week for R.A.?
Question posted by irish53 on 19 Oct 2010
Last updated on 6 August 2020 by Raymonda BB
6 Answers
I similarly got yeast infection one week after my first dose of methotrexate.
I give myself 25 mg injections of methotrexate once a week. I'd never had a vaginal yeast infection in my life until about 4 weeks after starting the methotrexate. I started with a lower dose of methotrexate and we're now up to the 25 mg a week.
I have a constant low-ish level yeast infection (it's enough that it is considered an overgrowth, but not enough to cause major discomfort). I can tell when I'm starting to get a cold or any other type of infection because the yeast symptoms seem to increase. My GYN did testing to confirm the type of yeast that is involved and fluconazole resolves all symptoms for about a week and then they gradually start coming back. The only treatment option I've been given is to take 1 dose of fluconazole per week. At this point the low-level yeast infection is substantially less annoying and debilitating than my autoimmune symptoms the methotrexate is controlling so I just deal with the yeast symptoms.
When the yeast infection symptoms get out of hand or become really bothersome I will take fluconazole, but I'm not comfortable being on routine doses of an anti-fungal.
Im guessing yes because I take 1 injection a week and get repeated infections.
I am currently using the SubQ version of this drug for 1+ years now and recently hospitalized with esophageal yeast bad enough that the swelling put pressure on my heart causing spasms of the heart- Dr. said it was related and a drug change was advisable!
I have the same question because I take 4 pills a week and have only taken two doses so far but now I have a yeast infection. I haven't had one years. I'm trying to find out if yeast infections are a side effect because if it is I need to be prepared.
It has not been documented but since you may have developed yeast infections while taking Methotrexate it could not be ruled out as its side effects, it is recommended to speak to your doc/pharmacist who prescribed the med., take care, be well.
Related topics
rheumatoid arthritis, infections, methotrexate
Further information
- Methotrexate uses and safety info
- Methotrexate prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Methotrexate (detailed)
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