Methotrexate shots... | Arthritis Information

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I have PA and Dr. finally decided to prescribe Methotrexate, I asked for injections since I have read a lot about potential side effects, and due to other health issues we both agreed it would probably be best for me.

In our previous conversation (when he was considering prescribing the pills,) he mentioned I should take Folic Acid the other days; however he didn't mention that today, after prescribing the shots...I will contact him before I begin my treatment...however I would like to hear from others that are on the shots.
 
Thanks!
Hi sjenk67.  I take 15 mg Oral Methotrexate 1 x weekly, and 5 mg Folic Acid daily for 6 days a week.  (None on the day I have my Methotrexate).  I imagine that whatever form the Methotrexate is taken, the Rh. would still recommend the Folic Acid, it certainly lessens the usual side effects. In my case now, and I have been taking it for years, and apart from initially, I don't have any side effects from the Meth. Do have to make sure that I have a good decent meal just before I take it.  One night I forgot to take it after my dinner, had it after  breakfast the next day, bad mistake! Needs a good full tum!! 
 
I have blood tests every six weeks (including liver stuff) and no worries there.  But I'm sure that some others on here will give you their experience of the injectable and Folic Acid. And, do check with your RH. 
 
Good luck with it , it's pretty scary at first with all these drugs etc, just keep asking questions, and keep in mind that it takes a while to kick in, but I'm sure your RH will explain that to you. 
 
Edited to add the following - searched Google "Methotrexate Folic Acid"
 

Methotrexate Injection

Q: Is there any benefit to receiving methotrexate by injection as opposed to taking it orally? Is it metabolized differently? Are the side effects of methotrexate injection different?

A: Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used to slow the disease process and treat the pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis. The body's absorption of the drug, and therefore its effectiveness, varies among individual patients when the drug is taken orally. To improve methotrexate's effectiveness, physicians may increase the oral dosages or try intramuscular methotrexate injection. 

Although the injections may help improve the medication's effectiveness, the potential side effects and benefits of methotrexate are virtually the same whether it is given orally or by injection. Liver damage remains the main concern, and is monitored by frequent blood tests. Taking 1 mg of folic acid per day can help reduce other side effects related to methotrexate use, such as mouth sores or gastrointestinal irritation.

David Pisetsky, MD, PhD, Rheumatologist


 
 
 
 
 
Kiwilass22011-03-12 00:51:35Dear Kiwilass2,
 
Thanks for taking the time to respond and for sharing your story...I also noticed you added some more info. - I 'really' appreciate it!!!!
 
I will def. talk to my Dr. on Monday before I start the injections...I'm hoping he just forgot
 
Take care,
 
Sandy.
BTW...the Folic Acid didn't seem to help with the mouth sores, so about a year ago, I switched to Arava, and the mouth sores went away. 
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