Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 a I take mex but i dont know if its working. I am taking lyrica for fibro. and its works great. but there is serious side effects you have to watch for. I must see an opthmalogist regularry. i get blood test regularry from my rheum doctor. so far over a year and doning good on lyrcia. clora From: Melynda Gamez <melyndagamez@...> Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Methotrexate Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 7:44 PM hi paula, i started on 4 mtx. now i'm on 7 pills every friday, & don't take folic acid if you're on it. HOPE IT WORKS 4 U!! god bless, melyndagamez 7/7/08 6:45p.m.central [ ] Re: Methotrexate Hi all, I am new to the group. I was diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica in January and have been on Prednisone since then. Now my rheumy has said that I have Reumatoid Arthritis also because my hands and wrists and knee and ankle have been swelling and hurting so bad since I tried to reduce the pred. He wants me to take MTX. Could anyone tell me what dose you started with and what time of day it is best to take starting out? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you, a ----- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 omg mex messes up the liver. i better keep a watch for that thanks clora > > > Hi a: > > Welcome to this wonderful group of caring, supportive, helpful, and very > informative people. I have had RA for 5 1/2 years, and take MTX every > week. I stated with the pills, but they gave me so much nausea I > couldn't take them. I have a bad stomach plus GERD. I then started > with injections, which solved my nausea problem. My Rheumy taught me how > to give myself the injection, and have been doing it all this time. I > was a wreck to do this, but I knew I needed this med. for my RA. I take > my shot, .8 on the needle, every Sun. night, and 12 hrs. later I take 2 > Leucovorin pills. That helps with the slight case of nausea I have. > I take my MTX at night, before bedtime. This works very well for me. I > hope this info. helps you. Sorry to hear you have 2 autoimmune diseases > to deal with. Wishing you pain free days, and again, welcome to our > group. > > Hugs, > > Barbara > > > > > Hi all, > > I am new to the group. I was diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica in > January and have been on Prednisone since then. Now my rheumy has said > that I have Reumatoid Arthritis also because my hands and wrists and > knee and ankle have been swelling and hurting so bad since I tried to > reduce the pred. He wants me to take MTX. Could anyone tell me what dose > you started with and what time of day it is best to take starting out? > Any help would be appreciated. Thank you, > > a > > ----- > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 Sorry guys i just relize the subject was about what was in the subject box. I am on Methotrexate. I dont know if it helps. But if i stop taking it i bet i would. So answer is yes Methotrexate so far is ok. for me hugs clora From: patandpaula <patandpaula@...> Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Methotrexate Date: Monday, July 7, 2008, 9:09 PM Melynda, did you mean to say do not take folic acid? Cause I have been doubling up on folic acid since I started the MTX. Is it helping you? Were you ever on pred? thanks paula [ ] Re: Methotrexate Hi all, I am new to the group. I was diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica in January and have been on Prednisone since then. Now my rheumy has said that I have Reumatoid Arthritis also because my hands and wrists and knee and ankle have been swelling and hurting so bad since I tried to reduce the pred. He wants me to take MTX. Could anyone tell me what dose you started with and what time of day it is best to take starting out? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you, a ----- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 I just started taking MTX, this week will be my 3rd time. I take 15mg once a week. I take it in the morning and so far I have had no side effects: sleepiness, nausea... > > Melynda, did you mean to say do not take folic acid? Cause I have been doubling up on folic acid since I started the MTX. Is it helping you? Were you ever on pred? thanks paula > [ ] Re: Methotrexate > > Hi all, > I am new to the group. I was diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica in January and have been on Prednisone since then. Now my rheumy has said that I have Reumatoid Arthritis also because my hands and wrists and knee and ankle have been swelling and hurting so bad since I tried to reduce the pred. He wants me to take MTX. Could anyone tell me what dose you started with and what time of day it is best to take starting out? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you, > a > ----- > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted July 8, 2008 Report Share Posted July 8, 2008 hi paula,i don't take the folic acid when i take the mtx.. to b HONEST i'm not sure if the mtx WORKS but i know it effects your liver & i don't like that!!! yes paula i'm on pred.5mg. daily for like ever. IT'S SOOOOOO HARD TO STOP!! do u take pred? thank-you for responding,god bless,melyndagamez 7/8/08 8:12p.m.central [ ] Re: Methotrexate Hi all, I am new to the group. I was diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica in January and have been on Prednisone since then. Now my rheumy has said that I have Reumatoid Arthritis also because my hands and wrists and knee and ankle have been swelling and hurting so bad since I tried to reduce the pred. He wants me to take MTX. Could anyone tell me what dose you started with and what time of day it is best to take starting out? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you, a ----- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 12, 2008 Report Share Posted August 12, 2008 I have been on it almost six months. I have no side effects except once in a while it makes me very tired. It has put me on my feet. Jolene In a message dated 8/13/2008 1:47:27 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, misskate47@... writes: I finally went to a rheumatologist and she has prescibed prednisone 10 mg. daily and 10 mg. of methotrexate once a week. i am really afraid of trying the methotexate. i was afraid of the prednisone also but my doctor prescribed that for me about two months ago when i couldnt walk at all. put me on and weaned me right off and made an appointment with the rheumy. i liked how well the prednisone helped me. the side effects of the methotrexate got me scared. so i guess what i am wondering is has anyone else been on this. did it work and or did they have side effects. i still havent tried it and it was prescribed to me last friday. **************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000017 ) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 12, 2008 Report Share Posted August 12, 2008 In a message dated 8/13/2008 12:47:34 A.M. Central Daylight Time, misskate47@... writes: >did they have side effects. i still havent tried it and it was prescribed to me last friday. >> I was a little afraid to take the Mtx also. But I know that RA can eat up your joints. I have seen joints in older people with their hands twisted in a ball, etc. If I have to take Mtx to stop this from happening, I will try it. I talked about my week with my RA doctor before deciding which day will work best for me. We decided on Monday. It didn't occur to me to take it at night, but I've heard it from others. I felt slightly nauseous and slightly sick for a few days. We started with six pills. Then the doc said I could cut down to 4 pills. He told me that my insurance company will not pay for other drugs unless Mtx has been tried. It's my opinion that this has been a good drug for RA for a long time. I think that is why it is tried first. I dont' get as sick now that I have been on it for a few months. I'm going to try Arava again after my tests and if that doesn't work, we will make some changes in October. I hope you take your pills after deciding the best day to take them. dd **************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000017 ) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 --- Hi, I was just like you. When they told me I had to take Methotraxate, I got scared & wouldn't take it, but after I found out I was getting worse I went in to my Dr office & she watched me take them. I have experienced stomach pains (rarely), but it mainly makes me real tired. It is ok to be scared, but it helps and it also helps bring your levels down. I hope this helps you. Traci > > I finally went to a rheumatologist and she has prescibed prednisone 10 > mg. daily and 10 mg. of methotrexate once a week. i am really afraid of > trying the methotexate. i was afraid of the prednisone also but my > doctor prescribed that for me about two months ago when i couldnt walk > at all. put me on and weaned me right off and made an appointment with > the rheumy. i liked how well the prednisone helped me. the side effects > of the methotrexate got me scared. so i guess what i am wondering is > has anyone else been on this. did it work and or did they have side > effects. i still havent tried it and it was prescribed to me last > friday. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 Hi, I don't blame you for having fears of methotrexate. When I first started it, I put it off, didn't have the benefit of this list yet and just went back and forth with my rheumy at the time. We did more battle over prednisone truth be told!!! I'm the devil on prednisone! Anyway, I gave in to MTX, have been on it about 9 months taking 20 mg ( 8 pills on thursday) for about 6 months. It takes 4 to 6 weeks to work, and when it starts to work, you will notice a big difference. Some people experience nausea, some get tired, I get " fuzzy " when I take it and i have to eat a few animal crackers....we all have different ways of taking it, but the general consensus is that it does help. So go ahead and take that step towards feeling better, we are here to help you as well, one step at a time. Heidi in Mass. In a message dated 8/13/2008 1:47:27 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, misskate47@... writes: I finally went to a rheumatologist and she has prescibed prednisone 10 mg. daily and 10 mg. of methotrexate once a week. i am really afraid of trying the methotexate. i was afraid of the prednisone also but my doctor prescribed that for me about two months ago when i couldnt walk at all. put me on and weaned me right off and made an appointment with the rheumy. i liked how well the prednisone helped me. the side effects of the methotrexate got me scared. so i guess what i am wondering is has anyone else been on this. did it work and or did they have side effects. i still havent tried it and it was prescribed to me last friday. **************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000017 ) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 > Hi> I was on mtx for about 12months and it did upset my stomach something shocking but I peservered with it. unfortunately when they put up my dose I had a shocking liver function reaction to it and they suspect it was also the plaquenil I was on. Liver function test is supposed to be 34 and mine went up to over 2,ooo it was pretty scary but luckily the liver has gone back to normal. I found at the time I was on it I wasn't as bad as I am now that I am not taking it. The rheumatologist said it was unlucky and very rare to have such a reaction to it. He has started me on it again on a very low dose to see how I go!!!! Of course I am a bit hesitant about what happened the last time. But I do know of others that have had good progress with it. I think we just need to try what we can to let us have some sort of quatlity of life. Best of luck and take care . > In a message dated 8/13/2008 12:47:34 A.M. Central Daylight Time, > misskate47@... writes: > > >did they have side > effects. i still havent tried it and it was prescribed to me last > friday. >> > > I was a little afraid to take the Mtx also. But I know that RA can eat up > your joints. I have seen joints in older people with their hands twisted in a > ball, etc. If I have to take Mtx to stop this from happening, I will try it. > > I talked about my week with my RA doctor before deciding which day will work > best for me. We decided on Monday. It didn't occur to me to take it at > night, but I've heard it from others. > > I felt slightly nauseous and slightly sick for a few days. We started with > six pills. Then the doc said I could cut down to 4 pills. He told me that my > insurance company will not pay for other drugs unless Mtx has been tried. It's > my opinion that this has been a good drug for RA for a long time. I think > that is why it is tried first. > > I dont' get as sick now that I have been on it for a few months. > > I'm going to try Arava again after my tests and if that doesn't work, we > will make some changes in October. > > I hope you take your pills after deciding the best day to take them. > > dd > > > > > > > > > > **************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? > Read reviews on AOL Autos. > (http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review? ncid=aolaut00050000000017 ) > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 I've been on mtx for 9 years now and my only side effect is slight thinning of my hair on top. It has given me back my life as I knew it, there is nothing that I can't do since starting it. I'd much rather be on the mtx than prednisone, I will not take that unless in dire straits and I have been in dire straits twice in the 9 years and did use it but came off it asap. in PA [ ] Methotrexate I finally went to a rheumatologist and she has prescibed prednisone 10 mg. daily and 10 mg. of methotrexate once a week. i am really afraid of trying the methotexate. i was afraid of the prednisone also but my doctor prescribed that for me about two months ago when i couldnt walk at all. put me on and weaned me right off and made an appointment with the rheumy. i liked how well the prednisone helped me. the side effects of the methotrexate got me scared. so i guess what i am wondering is has anyone else been on this. did it work and or did they have side effects. i still havent tried it and it was prescribed to me last friday. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 In a message dated 8/13/2008 10:41:34 A.M. Central Daylight Time, djelson@... writes: what is the concern about the pred. I know long term is bad, my doc sez it's a very low dose and not to be concerned.. I start my injections next week... This is what I have heard from doctors: If you are on Prednisone for a period of time, your body will stop making the natural cortisone -- I think they are called progestins. We were told that under 5 mg was a safe dose for long term. It can cause bone loss, cataracts and some other things in addition to that. Most of us have a love/hate relationship with prednisone. My bone density has been good, but I had to have cataract surgery at a fairly young age. I googled it and this was one thing I found. I know the links won't be active when it gets to the list. Herer is the URL: _http://arthritis.about.com/od/prednisone/f/risks_benefits.htm_ (http://arthritis.about.com/od/prednisone/f/risks_benefits.htm) dd Benefits of Prednisone Use Prednisone is a type of _corticosteroid_ (http://arthritis.about.com/od/steroids/) that decreases _inflammation_ (http://arthritis.about.com/od/inflammation/) relatively fast. As a result, it is a popular and useful treatment for inflammatory types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Recent evidence has shown that in addition to its ability to help people feel better by decreasing joint swelling, joint pain, and _fatigue_ (http://arthritis.about.com/od/fatigue/) , it also has the capacity to slow _joint damage_ (http://arthritis.about.com/b/a/257491.htm) . In general, _rheumatologists_ (http://arthritis.about.com/cs/docpad/a/rheumatologist.htm) tend to use corticosteroids such as prednisone or _prednisolone_ (http://arthritis.about.com/od/prednisolone/) early in the disease to get quick control of the inflammation and until other _disease modifying drugs_ (http://arthritis.about.com/od/dmards/) can take effect. Risks of Prednisone While it is unclear if doses of prednisone of 3 mg or less have clinically significant toxicity, doses of even 5 mg per day carry the increased risk of: * _osteoporosis_ (http://arthritis.about.com/od/osteopor/) * _cataracts_ (http://adam.about.com/reports/Cataracts.htm) * affecting _lipids_ (http://adam.about.com/reports/Cholesterol.htm) Higher doses may have other potential toxicities including: * decreased wound healing * masking infection * increasing the risk of infection Certainly, there are patients with rheumatoid arthritis who remain on prednisone long term. In those cases, the doctor and patient must weigh the benefits of the drug, as well as its potential side effects, and consider the alternatives available when making the best treatment decision. Answers provided by J. Zashin, M.D., clinical assistant professor at University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Division of Rheumatology, in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Zashin is also an attending physician at Presbyterian Hospitals of Dallas and Plano. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the American College of Rheumatology and a member of the American Medical Association. Dr. Zashin is author of Arthritis Without Pain - The Miracle Of TNF Blockers. The book is useful for anyone on one of the biologic drugs (Enbrel, Remicade, Humira) or considering the biologic drugs. _Read my review of the book_ (http://arthritis.about.com/od/brms/gr/tnfblockers.htm) and also visit _Dr. Zashin's website_ (http://www.scottzashinmd.com/) . **************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000017 ) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 Hi, I know how scary it is esp once your doctor tells you about all the possible side effects. I have been taking it since feb 08 and i take it with enbrel. I did have some side effects on it but the doctor up my folic acid to 3mg and it took them all away. i take it now with no problems. if you have any side effects what so ever just call you rh and have them up your folic acid. If it helps you - isnt somethings worth getting out of pain????? you just have to weight the benefit against the negatives. hope this helps. shannon Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 Hi everyone I " m donna and new to the group... I've been taking methotraxate for a year now, was working a little, not so much anymore so I must move on to " bigger guns " , anyway I had no side effects with it and have been on 10mg of pred for a year also, what is the concern about the pred. I know long term is bad, my doc sez it's a very low dose and not to be concerned.. I start my injections next week... looking forward to learning alot here... thanks donnaj [ ] Re: Methotrexate --- Hi, I was just like you. When they told me I had to take Methotraxate, I got scared & wouldn't take it, but after I found out I was getting worse I went in to my Dr office & she watched me take them. I have experienced stomach pains (rarely), but it mainly makes me real tired. It is ok to be scared, but it helps and it also helps bring your levels down. I hope this helps you. Traci > > I finally went to a rheumatologist and she has prescibed prednisone 10 > mg. daily and 10 mg. of methotrexate once a week. i am really afraid of > trying the methotexate. i was afraid of the prednisone also but my > doctor prescribed that for me about two months ago when i couldnt walk > at all. put me on and weaned me right off and made an appointment with > the rheumy. i liked how well the prednisone helped me. the side effects > of the methotrexate got me scared. so i guess what i am wondering is > has anyone else been on this. did it work and or did they have side > effects. i still havent tried it and it was prescribed to me last > friday. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 Because of all the meds I was taking, the dr. had me take the MTX via shots. This worked fine for 4 years until recently when I was having some lung problems. We have no idea if the MTX caused it, so don't be alarmed by my situation. Other than that, I didn't have any side effects. Best wishes, Tammy _________________________________________________________________ Get Windows Live and get whatever you need, wherever you are. Start here. http://www.windowslive.com/default.html?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_Home_082008 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 If you're having so much trouble with the pills, you might ask your rheumy about injecting mtx instead. I'm doing much better with side effects since my rheumy started me on injectable mtx about a year ago. And, maybe it's just my imagination, it seems to be more effective for me. It's not hard and really not so painful. Though I discovered I'm much less of a baby when someone else is giving me the shot as opposed to when I do it myself! Still, the nurse taught me to do it; it's not bad. I do still feel effects the next day but not nearly as bad as with the pills. Just something to consider. :-) Prakasha Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 taking milk thistle with mtx has helped many to have normal liver blood tests. also taking it by injection as opposed to orally helps many with stomach issues with it. in addition you may want to ask your doc for prescription folinic acid to take in addition to the folic acid you can buy on your own as they help counter side effects of the mtx. monique Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 God, I LOVE Prednisone...why can't they come up with something like it without the risks??? About 4 months ago, I was going through such a flare..I went on 60 mg of Prednisone and I was Superwoman almost overnight. I did all the spring cleaning...pulling the windows out, cleaning, cleaning, cleaning! Not long before that, my hands were so swollen and crooked, I couldn't hold a pen to sign my name. Those were the days... _____ From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of dgd301@... Sent: Wednesday, August 13, 2008 12:01 PM Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Methotrexate In a message dated 8/13/2008 10:41:34 A.M. Central Daylight Time, djelson@qwestoffice <mailto:djelson%40qwestoffice.net> .net writes: what is the concern about the pred. I know long term is bad, my doc sez it's a very low dose and not to be concerned.. I start my injections next week... This is what I have heard from doctors: If you are on Prednisone for a period of time, your body will stop making the natural cortisone -- I think they are called progestins. We were told that under 5 mg was a safe dose for long term. It can cause bone loss, cataracts and some other things in addition to that. Most of us have a love/hate relationship with prednisone. My bone density has been good, but I had to have cataract surgery at a fairly young age. I googled it and this was one thing I found. I know the links won't be active when it gets to the list. Herer is the URL: _http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/prednisone/f/risks_benefits.htm_> about.com/od/prednisone/f/risks_benefits.htm_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/prednisone/f/risks_benefits.htm> about.com/od/prednisone/f/risks_benefits.htm) dd Benefits of Prednisone Use Prednisone is a type of _corticosteroid_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/steroids/> about.com/od/steroids/) that decreases _inflammation_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/inflammation/> about.com/od/inflammation/) relatively fast. As a result, it is a popular and useful treatment for inflammatory types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Recent evidence has shown that in addition to its ability to help people feel better by decreasing joint swelling, joint pain, and _fatigue_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/fatigue/> about.com/od/fatigue/) , it also has the capacity to slow _joint damage_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/b/a/257491.htm> about.com/b/a/257491.htm) . In general, _rheumatologists_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/cs/docpad/a/rheumatologist.htm> about.com/cs/docpad/a/rheumatologist.htm) tend to use corticosteroids such as prednisone or _prednisolone_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/prednisolone/> about.com/od/prednisolone/) early in the disease to get quick control of the inflammation and until other _disease modifying drugs_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/dmards/> about.com/od/dmards/) can take effect. Risks of Prednisone While it is unclear if doses of prednisone of 3 mg or less have clinically significant toxicity, doses of even 5 mg per day carry the increased risk of: * _osteoporosis_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/osteopor/> about.com/od/osteopor/) * _cataracts_ (http://adam. <http://adam.about.com/reports/Cataracts.htm> about.com/reports/Cataracts.htm) * affecting _lipids_ (http://adam. <http://adam.about.com/reports/Cholesterol.htm> about.com/reports/Cholesterol.htm) Higher doses may have other potential toxicities including: * decreased wound healing * masking infection * increasing the risk of infection Certainly, there are patients with rheumatoid arthritis who remain on prednisone long term. In those cases, the doctor and patient must weigh the benefits of the drug, as well as its potential side effects, and consider the alternatives available when making the best treatment decision. Answers provided by J. Zashin, M.D., clinical assistant professor at University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Division of Rheumatology, in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Zashin is also an attending physician at Presbyterian Hospitals of Dallas and Plano. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the American College of Rheumatology and a member of the American Medical Association. Dr. Zashin is author of Arthritis Without Pain - The Miracle Of TNF Blockers. The book is useful for anyone on one of the biologic drugs (Enbrel, Remicade, Humira) or considering the biologic drugs. _Read my review of the book_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis.about.com/od/brms/gr/tnfblockers.htm> about.com/od/brms/gr/tnfblockers.htm) and also visit _Dr. Zashin's website_ (http://www.scottzas <http://www.scottzashinmd.com/> hinmd.com/) . **************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos. <http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000 017> aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000017 ) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 Hello Dorothy, Prednisone can do wonders yes, let me tell you about my time with it. I was on it for about 7 years, I gained over 70 lbs. I am 48 years old now, last year I started experiencing my heart racing suddenly, in October I went to a cardiologist, stress test echo and all. THe prednisone wacked out my adrenaline system. My heart is good, its my adrenaline system that causes the heart to race, so now I am on a beta blocker and off the prednisone. I lost 30 lbs so far, I am feeling good, and only on MTX, Mobic, and folic acid and occasional vicodin for pain, I also did 16 months on Enbrel and went off it also, it helped slow the disease progression down. Now I am eating health, exercising daily. Read up on the side effects and long term effects of prednisone its really not worth it. Jean From: Dorothy <dorv@...> Subject: RE: [ ] Re: Methotrexate Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2008, 8:04 PM God, I LOVE Prednisone.. .why can't they come up with something like it without the risks??? About 4 months ago, I was going through such a flare..I went on 60 mg of Prednisone and I was Superwoman almost overnight. I did all the spring cleaning...pulling the windows out, cleaning, cleaning, cleaning! Not long before that, my hands were so swollen and crooked, I couldn't hold a pen to sign my name. Those were the days... _____ From: @gro ups.com [mailto: @gro ups.com] On Behalf Of dgd301@... Sent: Wednesday, August 13, 2008 12:01 PM @gro ups.com Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Methotrexate In a message dated 8/13/2008 10:41:34 A.M. Central Daylight Time, djelson@qwestoffice <mailto:djelson% 40qwestoffice. net> .net writes: what is the concern about the pred. I know long term is bad, my doc sez it's a very low dose and not to be concerned.. I start my injections next week... This is what I have heard from doctors: If you are on Prednisone for a period of time, your body will stop making the natural cortisone -- I think they are called progestins. We were told that under 5 mg was a safe dose for long term. It can cause bone loss, cataracts and some other things in addition to that. Most of us have a love/hate relationship with prednisone. My bone density has been good, but I had to have cataract surgery at a fairly young age. I googled it and this was one thing I found. I know the links won't be active when it gets to the list. Herer is the URL: _http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/prednisone/ f/risks_benefits .htm_> about.com/od/ prednisone/ f/risks_benefits .htm_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/prednisone/ f/risks_benefits .htm> about.com/od/ prednisone/ f/risks_benefits .htm) dd Benefits of Prednisone Use Prednisone is a type of _corticosteroid_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/steroids/> about.com/od/ steroids/ ) that decreases _inflammation_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/inflammation/> about.com/od/ inflammation/ ) relatively fast. As a result, it is a popular and useful treatment for inflammatory types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Recent evidence has shown that in addition to its ability to help people feel better by decreasing joint swelling, joint pain, and _fatigue_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/fatigue/> about.com/od/ fatigue/) , it also has the capacity to slow _joint damage_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ b/a/257491. htm> about.com/b/ a/257491. htm) . In general, _rheumatologists_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ cs/docpad/ a/rheumatologist .htm> about.com/cs/ docpad/a/ rheumatologist. htm) tend to use corticosteroids such as prednisone or _prednisolone_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/prednisolone/> about.com/od/ prednisolone/ ) early in the disease to get quick control of the inflammation and until other _disease modifying drugs_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/dmards/> about.com/od/ dmards/) can take effect. Risks of Prednisone While it is unclear if doses of prednisone of 3 mg or less have clinically significant toxicity, doses of even 5 mg per day carry the increased risk of: * _osteoporosis_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/osteopor/> about.com/od/ osteopor/ ) * _cataracts_ (http://adam. <http://adam. about.com/ reports/Cataract s.htm> about.com/reports/ Cataracts. htm) * affecting _lipids_ (http://adam. <http://adam. about.com/ reports/Choleste rol.htm> about.com/reports/ Cholesterol. htm) Higher doses may have other potential toxicities including: * decreased wound healing * masking infection * increasing the risk of infection Certainly, there are patients with rheumatoid arthritis who remain on prednisone long term. In those cases, the doctor and patient must weigh the benefits of the drug, as well as its potential side effects, and consider the alternatives available when making the best treatment decision. Answers provided by J. Zashin, M.D., clinical assistant professor at University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Division of Rheumatology, in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Zashin is also an attending physician at Presbyterian Hospitals of Dallas and Plano. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the American College of Rheumatology and a member of the American Medical Association. Dr. Zashin is author of Arthritis Without Pain - The Miracle Of TNF Blockers. The book is useful for anyone on one of the biologic drugs (Enbrel, Remicade, Humira) or considering the biologic drugs. _Read my review of the book_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/brms/gr/ tnfblockers. htm> about.com/od/ brms/gr/tnfblock ers.htm) and also visit _Dr. Zashin's website_ (http://www.scottzas <http://www.scottzas hinmd.com/> hinmd.com/) . ************ **Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos. <http://autos. aol.com/cars- BMW-128-2008/ expert-review? ncid=aolaut00050 000000 017> aol.com/cars- BMW-128-2008/ expert-review? ncid=aolaut00050 000000017 ) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 13, 2008 Report Share Posted August 13, 2008 I agree totally. Sorry if you misunderstood my post, but I should have said that I was no longer on the dose of 60 mg. I've actually lost about 8 lbs. now that I am down to 5 mg about every 3 days. My rheumy suggested every other day, but I am anxious to get off it so I'm stretching it. My mother-in-law suffered from emphysema and was on steroids so she could breathe. It wreaked havoc on all her body functions and she ended up in a coma for 7 months before passing away. As I said..Why can't they come up with something like it without all the risks?? It's terrific that you've turned your health around. Best wishes to you for continued good health!! _____ From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of Nettleton Sent: Wednesday, August 13, 2008 10:59 PM Subject: RE: [ ] Re: Methotrexate Hello Dorothy, Prednisone can do wonders yes, let me tell you about my time with it. I was on it for about 7 years, I gained over 70 lbs. I am 48 years old now, last year I started experiencing my heart racing suddenly, in October I went to a cardiologist, stress test echo and all. THe prednisone wacked out my adrenaline system. My heart is good, its my adrenaline system that causes the heart to race, so now I am on a beta blocker and off the prednisone. I lost 30 lbs so far, I am feeling good, and only on MTX, Mobic, and folic acid and occasional vicodin for pain, I also did 16 months on Enbrel and went off it also, it helped slow the disease progression down. Now I am eating health, exercising daily. Read up on the side effects and long term effects of prednisone its really not worth it. Jean From: Dorothy <dorvoptonline (DOT) <mailto:dorv%40optonline.net> net> Subject: RE: [ ] Re: Methotrexate @gro <mailto: %40> ups.com Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2008, 8:04 PM God, I LOVE Prednisone.. .why can't they come up with something like it without the risks??? About 4 months ago, I was going through such a flare..I went on 60 mg of Prednisone and I was Superwoman almost overnight. I did all the spring cleaning...pulling the windows out, cleaning, cleaning, cleaning! Not long before that, my hands were so swollen and crooked, I couldn't hold a pen to sign my name. Those were the days... _____ From: @gro ups.com [mailto: @gro ups.com] On Behalf Of dgd301@... <mailto:dgd301%40aol.com> Sent: Wednesday, August 13, 2008 12:01 PM @gro ups.com Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Methotrexate In a message dated 8/13/2008 10:41:34 A.M. Central Daylight Time, djelson@qwestoffice <mailto:djelson% 40qwestoffice. net> .net writes: what is the concern about the pred. I know long term is bad, my doc sez it's a very low dose and not to be concerned.. I start my injections next week... This is what I have heard from doctors: If you are on Prednisone for a period of time, your body will stop making the natural cortisone -- I think they are called progestins. We were told that under 5 mg was a safe dose for long term. It can cause bone loss, cataracts and some other things in addition to that. Most of us have a love/hate relationship with prednisone. My bone density has been good, but I had to have cataract surgery at a fairly young age. I googled it and this was one thing I found. I know the links won't be active when it gets to the list. Herer is the URL: _http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/prednisone/ f/risks_benefits .htm_> about.com/od/ prednisone/ f/risks_benefits .htm_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/prednisone/ f/risks_benefits .htm> about.com/od/ prednisone/ f/risks_benefits .htm) dd Benefits of Prednisone Use Prednisone is a type of _corticosteroid_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/steroids/> about.com/od/ steroids/ ) that decreases _inflammation_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/inflammation/> about.com/od/ inflammation/ ) relatively fast. As a result, it is a popular and useful treatment for inflammatory types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Recent evidence has shown that in addition to its ability to help people feel better by decreasing joint swelling, joint pain, and _fatigue_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/fatigue/> about.com/od/ fatigue/) , it also has the capacity to slow _joint damage_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ b/a/257491. htm> about.com/b/ a/257491. htm) . In general, _rheumatologists_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ cs/docpad/ a/rheumatologist .htm> about.com/cs/ docpad/a/ rheumatologist. htm) tend to use corticosteroids such as prednisone or _prednisolone_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/prednisolone/> about.com/od/ prednisolone/ ) early in the disease to get quick control of the inflammation and until other _disease modifying drugs_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/dmards/> about.com/od/ dmards/) can take effect. Risks of Prednisone While it is unclear if doses of prednisone of 3 mg or less have clinically significant toxicity, doses of even 5 mg per day carry the increased risk of: * _osteoporosis_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/osteopor/> about.com/od/ osteopor/ ) * _cataracts_ (http://adam. <http://adam. about.com/ reports/Cataract s.htm> about.com/reports/ Cataracts. htm) * affecting _lipids_ (http://adam. <http://adam. about.com/ reports/Choleste rol.htm> about.com/reports/ Cholesterol. htm) Higher doses may have other potential toxicities including: * decreased wound healing * masking infection * increasing the risk of infection Certainly, there are patients with rheumatoid arthritis who remain on prednisone long term. In those cases, the doctor and patient must weigh the benefits of the drug, as well as its potential side effects, and consider the alternatives available when making the best treatment decision. Answers provided by J. Zashin, M.D., clinical assistant professor at University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Division of Rheumatology, in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Zashin is also an attending physician at Presbyterian Hospitals of Dallas and Plano. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the American College of Rheumatology and a member of the American Medical Association. Dr. Zashin is author of Arthritis Without Pain - The Miracle Of TNF Blockers. The book is useful for anyone on one of the biologic drugs (Enbrel, Remicade, Humira) or considering the biologic drugs. _Read my review of the book_ (http://arthritis. <http://arthritis. about.com/ od/brms/gr/ tnfblockers. htm> about.com/od/ brms/gr/tnfblock ers.htm) and also visit _Dr. Zashin's website_ (http://www.scottzas <http://www.scottzas hinmd.com/> hinmd.com/) . ************ **Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos. <http://autos. aol.com/cars- BMW-128-2008/ expert-review? ncid=aolaut00050 000000 017> aol.com/cars- BMW-128-2008/ expert-review? ncid=aolaut00050 000000017 ) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 4, 2008 Report Share Posted September 4, 2008 Margie, I was on MTX. I really can not tell you if it worked for me or not. I had all the side effects and then some it seems. I will list them. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth sores, eye sores and sores on all mucous membranes, dizziness, headache, fatigue. The big side effects that were life threatening were drug induced pneumonitis. I was so sick a spent my time while on MTX either in bed or on the bathroom floor. So I really could not tell if it did any good as I was too sick from the side effects. So after the drug induced pneumonitis and a really stupid rheummy that ignored my complaints about side effects. My internal med doc saw me having severe respiratory problems, chewed out the rheummy and stopped MTX. For me the drug was too strong. It was just toxic to my body and I could not handle it. It will be a drug I will never ever take again because the all the problems I had while on it. I also took 5mg folic acid as well as leucovorin with it to help counter act the side effects and that did not help any at all. I took both pills and injections. The drug was just too much for me. There are people who do well on this drug with no side effects....I was just not one of them. Toni **************It's only a deal if it's where you want to go. Find your travel deal here. (http://information.travel.aol.com/deals?ncid=aoltrv00050000000047) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 4, 2008 Report Share Posted September 4, 2008 Marge I stopped my MTX about a month and a half ago. It had gotten to the point that I had S/E 3-4 days after I took it. I told my Dr and he said just to stop and we will see. Man I can sure tell the difference, I am now struggling with the thought of going back on it. I hurt in every joint and basically feel like crap.I guess sometimes it just has to be hurt or be nauseous. I hope it works for you Heidi M On Thu, Sep 4, 2008 at 4:34 AM, nana2livi <s.p5315@...> wrote: > Margie, > After more than a year, the MTX still wipes me out for a day. I take > it on Friday nights so that I can devote my weekend to naps and rest. > I have a neighbor on it and she just feels really tired the day after. > It has been like a miracle for her. > > Two things, be sure to take folic acid. It greatly helps the side > effects and most important, get your blood work every month. If you > get elevated levels this is usually altered quickly with dosage change. > > I hope that you have great results like many, many people do. > Shirley > > > > > > > > > > In a message dated 9/3/2008 1:27:13 P.M. Central Daylight Time, > > mjacorn2@... writes: > > > > >Has anyone had any severe side effects from the > > methotrexate? Can you tell if the methotrexate has really helped or > > not? Thanks Margie> > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 5, 2008 Report Share Posted September 5, 2008 Thank you all so much in your replies to me regarding MTX. I will research the older discussions about it. You have helped me not be so afraid of it. I know I need to get the RA under control early before much damage is done. I just worry about getting lung problems from the MTX because I don't have any lung problems now and don't want to add more issues to deal with. Thanks Margie **************It's only a deal if it's where you want to go. Find your travel deal here. (http://information.travel.aol.com/deals?ncid=aoltrv00050000000047) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 5, 2008 Report Share Posted September 5, 2008 In a message dated 9/5/2008 2:54:08 P.M. Central Daylight Time, sdfprs@... writes: >Do you know what I would need to do if I wanted to switch taking in on Sun to Friday? I plan on asking my dr but apt not until Oct. > I have a friend who has experienced chemo-therapy. I was told I could go 8 days with Mtx. My friend said they don't like you going backwards -- like six days, but you can go 8 days, So you take it on Sunday one week, then Monday until you get to Friday -- my opinion and It's good that you are going to ask your doc. dd **************Psssst...Have you heard the news? There's a new fashion blog, plus the latest fall trends and hair styles at StyleList.com. (http://www.stylelist.com/trends?ncid=aolsty00050000000014) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 5, 2008 Report Share Posted September 5, 2008 Shirley and all, I'm so glad you mentioned this. I takeMTX on Sun and Mon and Tues I have bad days. Achy days. I call them Hangover days. I guess I'm glad to hear that 's part of the medicine. Do you know what I would need to do if I wanted to switch taking in on Sun to Friday? I plan on asking my dr but apt not until Oct. Other than that, I have no bad side effects from MTX. No stomache issues etc. The folic acid keeps the mouthsores away and when I did get one I doubled the folic acid till it was gone. I get my blood test every two mths....should I ask for every month? I know I have improved with MTX. I would say about 75% and I have been on it for almost 3 months. Good luck. Paris [ ] Re: Methotrexate Margie, After more than a year, the MTX still wipes me out for a day. I take it on Friday nights so that I can devote my weekend to naps and rest. I have a neighbor on it and she just feels really tired the day after. It has been like a miracle for her. Two things, be sure to take folic acid. It greatly helps the side effects and most important, get your blood work every month. If you get elevated levels this is usually altered quickly with dosage change. I hope that you have great results like many, many people do. Shirley > > > > In a message dated 9/3/2008 1:27:13 P.M. Central Daylight Time, > mjacorn2@... writes: > > >Has anyone had any severe side effects from the > methotrexate? Can you tell if the methotrexate has really helped or > not? Thanks Margie> > ------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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