I have RA and normally take Enbrel, however I just had cataract surgery and don't want to risk an infection in the eyes. I quit Enbrel for a time to raise my immune system. I have methotrexateand wonder if it lowers the immune system.
Does methotrexate lower your imune system?
Question posted by amish999 on 25 July 2010
Last updated on 26 May 2017
3 Answers
grec1
26 July 2010
I am scheduled for surgery on my foot again for the 4th time. My rheumatologist insists that for ANY surgery I must not take my Enbrel injections for two weeks prior to the surgery and then two weeks following. I can continue with the methotrexate (now injections) during the entire time.
During the time following my last surgery, I was thinking perhaps I no longer need the Enbrel and that seemed fine for the 4 weeks, however, very soon after the 4th week, I was reminded by the pain, how very much I need these meds. They carry such heavy side effects and potential damage that we naturally try to avoid them if possible. I always remind myself that going off the meds will cause permanent irreversable damage to the joints and other areas of the body RA affects.
geekygranny
25 July 2010
Because you have an autoimmune disease, you don't have to worry about raising your immune system. It's already extremely high.The reason you take Enbrel and methotrexate is to lower it so it won't eat away your bones and the linings of your bones and any other part of your body. I wouldn't want to get off my biologic if I were you. Because your immune system is already high enough to fight off infection. And methotrexate helps as well.
Just remember WHY you are on Enbrel and methotrexate. Your immune system is out of control and way too high.
Inactive
25 July 2010
I agree with you.
But she also stopped the use of enbrel( Enbrel helps to keep the immune system from attacking the body, which improves symptoms and, in some cases, prevents future damage from occurring).
RA is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disorder that may affect many tissues and organs, but principally attacks synovial joints. The process produces an inflammatory response of the synovium (synovitis) secondary to hyperplasia of synovial cells, excess synovial fluid, and the development of pannus in the synovium. The pathology of the disease process often leads to the destruction of articular cartilage and ankylosis of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can also produce diffuse inflammation in the lungs, pericardium, pleura, and sclera, and also nodular lesions, most common in subcutaneous tissue under the skin. Although the cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, autoimmunity plays a pivotal role in both its chronicity and progression.
But as you know all medications have benefits and side effects, I have listed the side effects of this medication on my answer but still Methotrexate may decrease the activity of your immune system, to the point that you may develop serious infections.
geekygranny
25 July 2010
MASO,
I also have RA. I know the problems with it. My hands are killing me even with Humira and methotrexate and sulfasalazine. But I would never go off my meds no matter what. Even now my SED rate is starting to climb in spite of the meds. Not by much but it is. I wear braces at night which seem to help my hand pain.
I was tested one time for carpal tunnel and it came out negative. But my orthopedic surgeon at the time still believes I have it in spite of the outcome of the test.
I still think she should go back on Enbrel and stay on methotrexate.
Inactive
25 July 2010
Geekygranny,
I from the bottom of my heart am truly sorry to read you also suffer from this condition... my heart goes out to you, and also to the person asking this question.
One last suggestion you should with all my respect is think about the pseudoname, I would love , my own personal opinion "lovingranny"
Your friend ,
Petetheoldguy
26 May 2017
I have been taking methotrexate and sulfasalazine for quite some time now and always prone to serious chest infections. I know I have to stop my medication if I have to take antibiotics but I have so many chest complaints I would be on and off my medication for to longer time. I'm in a right dilemma.
Inactive
25 July 2010
Hello, yes it can
Potentially Serious Methotrexate Side Effects
Some side effects with methotrexate can be quite serious -- even life-threatening -- and should be reported to your DOCTOR. These include:
Signs of low white blood cells, such as frequent infections
Signs of low blood platelets or anemia, such as easy bruising or bleeding
So yes , I mean all of the above mentioned has to do with your inmune system., AND WILL AFFECT IT.
All the best.
Related topics
enbrel, rheumatoid arthritis, infections
Further information
- Enbrel uses and safety info
- Enbrel prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Enbrel (detailed)
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