I've had some side effects but minor--bright red spots on my skin in various places that seem to appear suddenly. I'm still experiencing some hair loss. I also receive Orencia infusions monthly.
I have been on methotrexate 20+ years. Is this safe?
- Asked
- 2 Sep 2017 by jab-jam4
- Updated
- 24 Oct 2017
- Topics
- orencia, rheumatoid arthritis, methotrexate, side effect, skin, infusion, hair
Details:
Responses (2)
Do53
2 Sep 2017
Hi Jab-Jam. Having recently started on methotrexate myself over the last several months, I've taken the opportunity to do some research into this medication. What I have found that may help answer your question is that studies have shown that generally methotrexate is well tolerated for use in the long term. Having said that, I am assuming your doctor is regularly testing your liver functions and that these tests are coming out satisfactorily. I totally understand that 20 years is a very long time to be on such a strong medication. If you have concerns about this, I would highly recommend you have a discussion about this with your physician. Let him/her know some of the side effects you seem to be experiencing now and discuss your general feelings of unease with being on this medication for such a lengthy period of time. Ask your doctor to elaborate on how the benefits of staying on this medication outweigh any potential risks. You have a right to understand their thinking on this matter so that you can make an informed decision. If you find out anything you'd like to share please post back here. Good luck and good health to you.
chuck1957
3 Sep 2017
Just for those that are taking this, iT'S BEEN AROUND FOR MANY MANY YEARS AND THIS IS ONE OF THOSE MEDICATIONS THAT AS LONG AS THE DOCTOR DOES REGULAR TESTING YOU SHOULD BE JUST FINE THERE REALLY ARE NOT MANY OPTIONS TO THIS MEDICATION FOR THE PATIENTS THAT REQUIRE IT AND AS LONG AS IT IS DOING WHAT IT SHOULD BE DOING YOUR FINE WITH THE BLOOD TEST. And any doctor using this knows that very well. But there really is no other options to control the problems you have it is used for many things and they would not use it if the benefits did not outweigh the long term effects. Chuck1957
jab-jam4
5 Sep 2017
You're right. Thanks for taking time to comment.
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MTX oral pills were ineffective for me. I was better on humira but developed a rash & and had 1st rituxan infusion yesterday.
I hope your infusion went well. I will keep you in my prayers. Stay strong!
Thanks for your input!
Yes, 2nd infusion shorter, 9-2pm. Just tired day after-Now a movie day 4 me
I just got your most recent comment and I hope you're feeling better now after the infusion! Movie day is a wonderful way to recoup! Hope you watched some good ones!!
Thanks to all of the responders. I really like this site & learn a lot from patient reports-better than Dr. information. Prescribing versus actual experience taking a drug, offers real user information.