Frustrated Newbie | Arthritis Information
Hi everyone,
My name is Lynn, I am 57 years old, and live in Alexandria, Egypt. Although, I have had psoriasis for many years, it was only recently, that I have researched and found the connection between the psoriasis and the excruciating joint pain that I have. It started about two years ago in my toes, and is now in my hips, elbows, knees and legs. There are some days that I can barely walk. The pain is most severe when I have an outbreak of psoriasis.
The problem is magnified due to the medical care here, in Egypt. I have been to several doctors. ( still searching for a rhuematoligist, they don't seem to exist here) The doctors look at me, as if I have two heads, when I try to explain the connection and ask about the meds that I have read about. I finally became so frustrated, that I went to a pharmacy and asked which meds were available here. It seems the only one available here, is methotrexate in 25 milligrams. I was all set to start taking this on my own (available without prescription here), when the pharmacist basically freaked out, and insisted that it is only used for patients with cancer. Knowing that I would be taking a much smaller doseage than someone with cancer, I'm still considering taking it. I have read that most people start out taking less than 25mgs, and that blood tests should be done periodically. I guess I'm asking, if anyone here, has started out taking this much methotrexate, and what should I look for in blood tests?
Welcome to the board. Usually, one is started off at the smallest dosage and then you can increase dosage after 3 months if you're still symptomatic, but and this is a big butt - I wouldn't do this on my own. I understand your situation but MXT isn't like taking 2 Aspirins. There are numerous things that are looked at when you have labs done. They need to be run every couple of months. You may have side effects. Someplace there must be a physician who will see you, prescribe the meds, and do the follow up. Look for physicians that have been trained in the U.S. or Europe, Australia. Search out physicians at the University. Keep us posted. LindyI agree with Lindy that you should seek a doctor. Don't use MTX on your own as you do need to have bloodwork done every 3 months to check liver enzymes etc. Best to be under the care of a doctor.
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