... Doctor said I could split the 6 pills, taking 3 in a.m. and 3 in p.m. How fast do the side effects occur? Should I stay home all day?
Rheumatoid Arthritis - Taking Methotrexate for the first time tomorrow. Afraid of the side effects?
Question posted by Cal1953 on 27 Feb 2016
Last updated on 17 May 2022
Answers
popcorn59
10 March 2016
Hi Cal1953. I just started taking Methotrexate almost 3 weeks ago. I take my pills on a Saturday night. I was told to avoid caffeine around the time of taking the pills. Also to drink lots of water.
After my first dose, I woke up with a headache and I was tired. Tylenol helped the headaches, although that seems the side effect I mostly get. I just laid around all of Sunday and Monday. By Tuesday I started getting a few sores in my mouth. The dr told me to begin taking Lysine (which cleared them up in about 3 days) and to lower my dose to 3 pills. I never experienced nausea like lots of people. Everyone reacts differently. I was also given Folic acid pills to take daily. Maybe that's why my side effects are minimal so far.
Good luck... don't be afraid to take MTX. If you start to feel bad, call your doctor.
pippa63
17 May 2022
I took my very first dose of 7.5mg methotrexate last night. I was also very worried and uneasy about the medicine. This morning I'm fine. A bit of a headache. No other side effects. I also take 5mg prednisone, hopefully will come of that soon.
I research a lot of things, things that seem silly, but it is necessary, because three are interactions even with certain foods.
I have taken turmeric for a long time (look up turmeric paste- I make a 2 week supply and refrigerate it) this will help with possible liver issues one could get from the methotrexate. turmeric is spice that has been used for thousands of years. I swear by it.
Minimize coffee..dang that's hard, lol no unpasteurized milk or soft cheeses like goat milk, camembert etc. Chedder is a hard cheese and many others.
I have had RA for 3 years undiagnosed properly until 2 months ago. The pain is real.
This disease is a mind bend. Take care of your self mentally. You are always way toughter than you feel. Find your happy place. Mine is outside, but now too, minimised.
Keep your chin up, but let things out when you need to.
Best of luck
Pippa
Related topics
rheumatoid arthritis, methotrexate, side effect, doctor, pill
Further information
- Methotrexate uses and safety info
- Methotrexate prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Methotrexate (detailed)
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