I get palpitations sometimes approx 20 times a day. It's driving me mad and can be quite frightening. I have been on methotrexate 25mg for RA for almost 2 years. I am also taking leflunomide 10mg daily. I would be grateful for advise you could give me. Thanks.
Can you tell me if methotrexate 25mg weekly can cause palpitations?
Question posted by alisonhoney on 30 March 2013
Last updated on 2 April 2013
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
Answers
craighen
2 April 2013
It could be your Arava (leflunomide) or even an interaction between your two DMARDs (leflunomide and methotrexate are not normally prescribed together and, when they are, your methotrexate dosage should typically be lowered from the maximum of 25mg.) I've been on both DMARDs together and did end up in the emergency room with severe dizziness from the leflunomide and heart palpitations and tightness in my chest where I thought I was having a heart attack. Leflunomide can also cause hyperthyroidism which causes heart palpitations too. I agree with the MD who has already responded: see your doctor right away and be sure to have them contact your Rheumatologist to let him or her know what's happening too.
Best of luck!
alisonhoney
2 April 2013
Thank you very much for your suggestions. I hadn't thought about a possible reaction to the two drugs together. I have made an appointment to see my GP. Lets hope I get to the bottom of this worrying symptom. Thank you again. Your ideas have been very helpful.
madhupjoshimd
30 March 2013
as you are having frequent palpitations, contact your doctor immediately & follow his/her recommendations.
Sincerely,
Madhup Joshi, MD
Maui, Hawaii
alisonhoney
31 March 2013
Thank you for your advise
Related topics
rheumatoid arthritis, arrhythmia, leflunomide, methotrexate
Further information
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.