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Methotrexate for Psoriasis User Reviews

Brand names: Otrexup, Trexall, Methotrexate LPF Sodium, Rasuvo, Xatmep Jylamvo

Methotrexate has an average rating of 8.0 out of 10 from a total of 88 reviews for the treatment of Psoriasis. 75% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 10% reported a negative experience.

Methotrexate rating summary

8.0 average rating out of 10

88 ratings from 93 user reviews.

Compare all 282 medications used in the treatment of Psoriasis.

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Reviews for Methotrexate

  • Brad...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • May 13, 2018

"I am a 40-year-old male, and I have been battling psoriasis for about 5 years. It started at the top of my scalp, moved behind my ears, and had patches around my scalp and hairline. It then moved down to my waistline, my penis, and to my butt crack. For years now, I have had numerous different diagnoses, and a multitude of medications and theories. I finally met one doctor and he said simply, 'You have inverse psoriasis, we will put you on methotrexate, no more guesswork.' This is literally the third day I have been on methotrexate, and all remnants below the belt are almost 100% gone. Behind my ear is going away, and my scalp plaques are literally disappearing already. I am so excited."

10 / 10
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143 Report
  • Happy...
  • November 2, 2019

"Our son developed psoriasis at 14 whole body out of nowhere. He hid it for a long time but when he finally showed me, I was heartbroken. Immediately, we were referred to a skin specialist who put him on weekly methotrexate, and within a week the results were staggering. He has now been on this drug for 6 years with regular blood testing, all good results, and it has changed his life. He will continue to take it as long as it works. Changed our lives and his life and mental well-being to know he can show his body with no shame. He now takes 1 or 1.5 tablets once weekly and only ever has maybe one stubborn patch maybe on his elbows here and there. No side effects have ever happened ☺️"

10 / 10
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100 Report
  • willie
  • Taken for 10 years or more
  • September 25, 2019

"I'm 71 years old and have been taking Methotrexate (mtx) since I was 13. In all these years of using between 10-15 mg/week, I have never had a problem... and yes, blood work every three months and precautionary (cya) liver biopsies over the years (all 11 of them scored a 4+ on a scale of 5 - tahdah). The results have always been positive - when I was younger and had severe psoriasis, the methotrexate (mtx) would slow it down, sometimes totally suppress it, the sun would help eliminate whatever was present and now that I'm (much) older, the mtx keeps me totally clear except during the winter months when things occasionally flare. My dermatologist has tried to get me on newer drugs but I've had such a lifelong success with the mtx, I won't change. I totally endorse trying it and I simply don't buy into it being more toxic than the newer items out there. (P.S. since it's now generic, the price is way down...) Good luck!"

10 / 10
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96 Report

Frequently asked questions

  • Nicky
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • March 29, 2019

"For the past 40 years, I have been affected by psoriasis, with 20-30% of areas on my body including the scalp and face. Mainly no itching. After heavy activity in the sun, there may be slight itching in some places. I have tried many medications, but only temporary relief was achieved. Methotrexate, in the form of Dermatrex 10mg tablet once per week, along with folic acid tablets initially for the first two weeks 6 days a week, and from the third week onwards three days following the methotrexate. Within a month's time, all the skin eruptions were gone. In the 2nd month, Methotrexate 7.5 mg tablet once per week followed by folic acid tablet was prescribed. From the third month on, I have not been taking any medicine. Two months have passed without any problems. I will provide feedback in the future."

8 / 10
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97 Report
  • Kimmy
  • January 6, 2014

"Tried all other methods for relief of psoriasis, 80% of body. Have been on methotrexate for 5.5 weeks, belly, back, chest, and forearms are all clear. Very mild psoriasis that isn't red or irritated on upper arms and lower legs. My confidence and self-esteem have increased heaps. Excited to go for a swim 2nd time since I've had psoriasis (7 years). Only had bad fatigue for the first few weeks, haven't drunk any alcohol, healthy diet with minimal junk food, and nausea if I eat something really fatty, e.g., pizza. Skin color isn't yellowing nor getting black under the eyes, or anything else relating to bad liver. Would definitely recommend this medication."

10 / 10
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157 Report

Are you taking this medicine?

  • Pipel...
  • January 16, 2013

"I have been on methotrexate for 2 1/2 years. I cleared up within 2 months and have stayed cleared up! Knowing you can only have so many grams in a certain amount of time makes me sad because soon I will have to stop taking it and switch to something different. I am 39 and have had psoriasis since I was 21. I can wear shorts and a t-shirt and feel normal. Methotrexate has given me my freedom back and I have had no side effects. If you have psoriasis, you should give it a try. For me, it's been so worth it."

10 / 10
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149 Report
  • TPCDS...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • October 18, 2015

"I was diagnosed with severe advanced plaque psoriasis in Dec 2014. I was 60% covered when I first went to my dermatologist. By the end of Mar 2015, after trying one ointment after another, I was 95% covered, in pain (felt like 3rd-degree sunburn), the itching was like a million fire ant bites 24/7. I couldn't lay down or sleep. The doctor started me on Methotrexate in May. Within 6 weeks, I was totally clear and still am (10/18/15). I take 2-2.5mg tablets Mon AM & again Mon PM then 1 Tues AM for a total of 12.5 mg a weekly. I also take 1-1mg Folic Acid every day. I go in for follow-ups and blood work every 3 months but I'm fine now... thanks to Methotrexate."

10 / 10
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121 Report

More FAQ

  • Aigoual
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • August 12, 2016

"At age 66, after a very stressful phase of work over 7 months, I developed psoriasis very suddenly. With no previous skin problems & no family history of psoriasis either, I conclude that the stress was the trigger. I had the psoriasis all over but the worst was on my scalp - it felt like an iron band pressing in around my head. The dermatologist prescribed a whole range of creams and ointments over a year. Nothing worked. Finally in Nov. 2015 I was prescribed methotrexate + 1 folic acid tablet weekly. I was told it would take up to 3 months to kick in & it did, but in Aug. '16 I am virtually clear with no side effects. The dosage has increased to 15 mg weekly & all my blood tests are normal. But will I have to stay on methotrexate for life?"

9 / 10
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108 Report
  • AllCl...
  • May 7, 2016

"I was diagnosed with psoriasis at the age of 14. My life was hell by the time I was 18. It covered pretty much everywhere the sun didn't shine. I tried everything topical, UV light and sunbathing, different diets - you name it, I tried it. In my 30s, I accepted that the only way I was ever going to have relief was by sunbathing once every three or so months until I was so burnt it forced the psoriasis to slow down. I met a random stranger who saw my psoriasis and mentioned methotrexate. He told me his story, so I gave it a try. I hope the people who are complaining after six or even seven weeks stay the course. It took me four months to see results. I am 40 now and have been 95% clear for the past eight years. 12mg once a week."

9 / 10
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101 Report
  • Mrs...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • June 9, 2014

"I have suffered with psoriasis since I was 19 years old, now in my 40s, I have tried everything on the market. I have been on methotrexate since New Year's Day, and I am so happy to say that it has nearly all gone. I can holiday with all my friends and don't feel embarrassed. I am so happy. I would recommend it. It's a slow process, but five months in and pretty much clear. No side effects, just tired on the day of medication, but that's not an issue."

9 / 10
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112 Report
  • fluff...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • April 5, 2013

"I've had severe psoriasis, which covered me head to toe since I was 5. I'm now 30. Tried every trick in the book from lotions and potions, light therapy, & homeopathic remedies. I put off taking methotrexate for fear of becoming a glow-in-the-dark alien with the side effects! Finally gave in last year and so glad I did. It cleared within 3 weeks. I'm now on 15mg a week and only have slight patches of psoriasis dotted about. Had a few bad headaches now and then but nothing extreme. A little wobbly on the blood tests but nothing life-threatening just yet. Much better quality of life at the moment, and much less hoovering, haha."

9 / 10
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111 Report
  • scaly...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • December 30, 2013

"I have had psoriasis on my scalp since I was a baby with 'Cradle Cap.' It was left untreated until I was about 21. I have tried every cream and t-gel out there. Nothing cleared it up fully. Since I turned 24, the condition has spread to other parts of my body, usually parts that don't get much light. Psoriasis is terrible and affects everyone so differently. This condition has kept me from getting close to people and even kept me from going to hairdressers. Finally, I decided to start this medicine. I'm currently on my fourth week of 15mg oral methotrexate. I have noticed a huge decrease in itching, and my patches seem to be not as scaly. I really hope this works, so far so good."

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100 Report
  • Kimber
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • November 4, 2013

"This drug greatly helped my psoriatic arthritis, but not the plaque psoriasis, which always came back. I've been through the script topicals, light treatments, Amiveve, etc. I was 98% covered. Why did not a single doctor ever tell me NOT to touch beer? If you drink beer, put it DOWN and see how quickly you begin to clear up. Pork is another culprit as it is slow to digest and affects the immune system. For topical relief, try OTC Boudreaux's Butt Paste baby diaper rash cream, which far outshines Dovonex. Scalp treatment? Neutrogena T-Gel Shampoo works quickly. If you are severely covered, add zinc or zinc supplements to your diet. I haven't gone to a derm in years, and I am clear!"

7 / 10
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98 Report
  • AndyW
  • September 3, 2015

"I have been taking a 15 mg weekly dose (three doses of 5 mg at 12-hour intervals once a week) for five weeks now. My psoriasis, pretty heavy scaling on all joints and 'splatter' over pretty much the whole body, which I've had for 18 years (I'm 51), has gone almost completely. Still a little bit on elbows, knees, and ankles, hands and the rest of the body are completely clear. Yes, early days, but hopefully... My only suggestion is to get empty gelatine capsules (or gelatine substitute if you are vegetarian, harder to get hold of) and put the tablets in them before taking. Helps avoid stomach upset."

10 / 10
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85 Report
  • Leopa...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • May 6, 2014

"I live in the UK & have had plaque psoriasis for 20 years. After various lotions, UVB & PUVA, my knees & elbows became infected, and I could hardly walk or sleep with the discomfort. As I also have depression, my dermatologist decided on prescribing methotrexate as my quality of life was so severely affected. I take 15mg tablets once a week, within a month it had all but gone, and has remained that way. It has been a year since I started, it's such a relief not to think about my knees all the time! I also take folic acid, and the skin on my face has become quite oily, but it's definitely worth it. I've recently noticed the few patches I have left are beginning to increase in size, but I hope this improves with the arrival of summer!"

9 / 10
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93 Report
  • dw-ma...
  • September 4, 2011

"I have had psoriasis all my life (45 yrs). I have been a methotrexate user for 12 years. Before I started using methotrexate, I was covered about 90%. Today it is about 1%. Over the years, along with blood work, I have had 3 liver biopsies. I have had no side effects."

9 / 10
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107 Report
  • abushy
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 27, 2017

"I was diagnosed with psoriasis about 1.5 years ago at the age of 24. It was severe in my scalp, ears, elbows, hands, knees, legs, and feet. I've tried every single remedy out there. Every cream and ointment the derm prescribed. Finally, I stood my ground and needed a change; it was affecting my everyday life terribly. I've been on methotrexate 15mg and folic acid 1mg for about two months now, and my elbows, hands, and feet are clear, my elbows and scalp have decreased dramatically! I have absolutely no side effects, which was my biggest fear! Life is good! It's amazing!"

10 / 10
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71 Report
  • Anonymous
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • May 26, 2012

"It works great! I have had Psoriasis all my adult life and only two things have worked. The first was the original Skin Cap spray from Spain but that disappeared after the U.S. government got involved. This was second. I have been on methotrexate 2.5mg tablets for 6 months and was fully clear within the first month. No stomach problems and no other side effects. If you suffer from psoriasis, do yourself a favor and find a doctor that will work with you to try it."

10 / 10
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94 Report
  • Arouran...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 13, 2013

"Started taking methotrexate approximately 1 and a half weeks ago. Already have seen significant improvements. I have had over 75% coverage of psoriasis from head to toe since my teens, and I am now 45. Minor troubling side effects include slight nausea, bad fatigue, and dizziness. These clear up after I finish my three-day treatment. Positive outweighs the negative. I am scheduled for my first liver test on October 1st. In my opinion... worth it!"

10 / 10
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74 Report
  • danske
  • May 7, 2018

"I watched a good friend (with psoriasis) deteriorate on this vile drug, taken in rotation, 3 months on, 1 month off for over 3 years. 1 month off? Yes, to give the liver a 'chance to recover.' Really?! His liver suffered so badly, he died within 3 years-from liver and pancreatic cancer. From the beginning of being on this drug, my friend's digestion suffered increasingly, as did his immune function. He was always in denial about the role methotrexate played in his poor health-because it did cure his hated psoriasis."

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  • Juju...
  • October 6, 2014

Methotrexate LPF Sodium (methotrexate) "Seeing marked improvement in a little over 48 hours of receiving the injection. Psoriasis is 2/3 the coloration as before. After 54 years of having this, I am pleasantly surprised. Thought it would work much slower. At this point, I am thrilled. No side effects yet!"

8 / 10
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65 Report
  • NW Eire
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • April 9, 2015

"Age 59, F, living N W Eire. No history of psoriasis until it struck 2 years ago. Small plaques on scalp, left elbow, then palms of hands, fingers, and soles of feet. Itchy, shredding skin, burning as if stung by nettles. Open, painful cracks. Emollients, lotions, and prescription creams had no effect. Water and detergents irritated. Touch and walking were agony. Latex gloves for shower/chores, cotton gloves at work. Dermatologist found 'debilitating stage 2 psoriatic arthritis' and prescribed 2.5 Methotrexate x6 once weekly, plus Folic Acid and bloods checked weekly. Now in the 7th week. Plus: using hands and walking, no irritation. Neg: tired, poor focus, urinary infections, worse in bad weather, still avoiding water/detergents. Conclusion: Highly recommend Methotrexate."

7 / 10
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  • evlinaa
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • August 24, 2017

"I have been with psoriasis for the past ten years. I went to 3 different doctors, specialists. I treated for an antifungal condition, and I was also treated for ringworms too. I have tried everything apparently available on the shelves, and it cost me so much money too. Went online and found a clinic with only positive reviews. Gave it a go, and I was prescribed methotrexate for only five days. I swear my skin has cleared 85 percent. No itchy tiny patches. All my friends haven't stopped complimenting me. Now I must say that I have been using only paraben-free kinds of stuff for hair and body and kept moisturizing with Aveeno. (No peanuts at all) it's a super trigger for psoriasis- my laundry is also washed with only baby products."

10 / 10
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49 Report
  • Scaly
  • April 2, 2016

"For all the people just starting MTX for psoriasis... patience, it takes time!!!! I have had psoriasis for 20 years, worse every year for the last decade, tried ointments, UV therapy, all sorts of diets in vain. Started MTX 7.5 mg weekly 4 months ago, feeling heartbroken the first couple of months as I saw no change, but it is happening... at turtle speed I am clearing. After 3 months the itch stopped, now I am VERY SLOWLY clearing (as long as I don't take any alcohol). The dermatologist said at such a low dose to expect the best benefit around 6 months. No side effects!"

10 / 10
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54 Report
  • hopeful...
  • June 9, 2015

"Just started the 15 mg dose taken as 6 x 2.5 mg tablets. 1st week taking them I had explosive diarrhea after 1 hour of taking the medication. I hoped it was coincidence. 1 week later I am already seeing an improvement in my psoriasis. I took the dosage this week on an empty stomach and within an hour stomach cramps and diarrhea. I am going to stick with it until my appointment with the dermatologist when I will ask for injections instead. I did have very mild nausea and a slightly fuzzy head after. I will keep you all updated."

8 / 10
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56 Report

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.

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