A Whine and a MTX Question | Arthritis Information

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Can I whine a little, and ask another stupid question?

 

I’m feeling totally miserable.  The MTX isn’t working.  My shoulders have been really bothering me.  I started on prednisone last Friday and while my pain level isn’t excruciating like it was, I HURT and it’s wearing me down!  I’ve always had good results from prednisone before so this is throwing me for a loop.  O.K. my whine is over.

 

The question.  Has anyone had good results with the injectable MTX when the pills didn’t work at all?

Some of the people here say they like the injectable Mtx compared to the pills.  Some also suggest if you are taking the pill version take it before going to bed.  Hope that helps.  memeHmmmm.  I think my RD is going to want me to switch over tomorrow.  Don't really want to.  [QUOTE=Linncn] Do people say injectable works better? Or is it that the side effects aren't so severe?[/QUOTE]
Both, absorption, and thus efficacy, is higher with the injectable than with oral and bypassing the gut means that any tendency toward nausea/cramping/diarrhea is reduced in severity and duration.

Or that is how it has been for me. Yeah, my RD said that, especially after 20 mg your body just can't absorb it well.  I haven't had the stomach problems, any side effects really, that some of the others have had.Oh Kweenb,

I can't help with the injectable MTX but I really feel for you with the pain.

Constant, nagging pain does make up miserable. Make sure you rest as much as you can, take care of yourself and be gentle to you. And honestly, whine away, sweetie, that's what we are here for.

I so hope things improve for you soon.

I've got plenty of cheese over here!

I never took the MTX pills. I've always done the injectable. When my doctor first talked about MTX he asked about the way I handle drugs and we both decided the injection would be best. My stomach tends to buck up on me if I have anything funky in my system.

 

Kweenb, repeat after me:  "There are no stupid questions, there are no stupid questions."  Now that we've gotten that taken care of, I'd like to know how long you've been on the MTX.  Maybe it just needs more time to get the full effect.  It can take several months, up to nine, according to my RD, so it may still get better for you. 

I'm sorry you're feeling pain.  It must be so exhausting and discouraging.  I hope things turn around for you very soon.  In the meantime, keep those questions coming. 

Jesse88,

I started MTX in July.  I'm at 15 mg right now and I get worse with each increase instead of better.  My RD wants to switch me to Enbrel but I don't think my insurance company will pay based on the criteria on their website.  I was just looking for other options.  I haven't tried Arava, but I'm more afraid of that one than I was the MTX.

 

Hmm, you may be one of those who need the injectible.  It works very well for some who can't tolerate the pills.  Since you've only been on it a few months, it may need more time to kick in, but it could really make a difference in how you feel.  Talk to your RD about the injectible.  I have a friend who has used that method for many years and the MTX really helps her.  Good luck.
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