Posted by Terri on November 09, 2000 at 22:16:38:

In Reply to: Re: methatrexate posted by beau on August 15, 2000 at 09:34:18:

: : Hello

: : I was wondering if anyone can help me. My mother just started taking Methatrexate once a week, she is taking 5mg. She has R.A. Does anyone else take this amount? Or have info on anything about it? Please let me know. Thank You!

: : Cyndi

:
: Hi Cyndi,
: Methotrexate is a drug ( an immuno-suppressant ) that has been prescribed for Rheumatoid arthritis for a long time--since the 80's. 5 mg's per week is a very low dose. You can expect the rheumatologist to raise that dose, over time, to something between the 5 that she is using now and 30 mg's per week, until there is an acceptable benefit. If there is not a benefit, then the doctor will suggest moving on to a different treatment program with a different drug or combo of drugs.

Hi Cindi...I was on methotrexate for several weeks and developed what I considered a serious side effect. I began coughing, just a little at first usually at night, then it became,over time, very serious. I began losing my voice because the coughing was so bad, very deep. My doctor said it would subside, I wanted off these things right away..she eventually took me off, put me back on prednisone temporarily, then (and now) I am taking Arava daily along with Tolmetin. Much improved, although I still do the bloodwork every 3 weeks... In my opinion, methotrexate needs watching, I dont care how long its been around...I hope your mom feels better!