Adding Methotrexate to my list...Any suggestions

[Guest guest]

Hi,

I am a lurker for the most part but mostly because I haven't had a lot

of time or energy lately. I have been having severe elbow pain for 6

months or longer. To make a long story short. I have had insurance

problems with getting the Enbrel approved. I have been on it for about

4 years now but my husband changed jobs. even though we took into

consideration my health we thought since the new company he works for

has the exact same insurance company. his ID number is even the

same that we would not have these problems. Now we are finally

awaiting to see if they will approve it.

When I went in to see my rheumy my elbow was very swollen and hot to

touch. I have hardly been able to to use it. He put a steroid shot in

it. Because this elbow has gotten so bad so quick he wants to add

methotrexsate as well as restart the Enbrel. I am needing any advise

you can give me on this regimen..I have never tried methotrexate

before and have heard so many bad things about it. I am wondering if

it will be worth it..Any suggestions an this med will be greatly

appreciated..

Also I need help with hair thinning and psoriasis on the scalp..Once

the hair thins out to almost bald can you get the hair thickened back

up if you get the ps under control? My daughter is 15 and has this

problem. I am taking her to the derm. but waiting for the appointment.

Please help me with these two issues..I am very tired and stressed

about this issue especially about my daughter.

Thank you in advance.

Sincerely,

Vickey

[Guest guest]

Hi Vickey,

I'm a lurker too, but I thought I'd chime in on this

one. I've been on methotrexate, and then methotrexate and Enbrel

(which is where I still am). I think methotrexate is great stuff -

alone it wasn't quite doing the trick for me, but in combination with

the Enbrel I do pretty well. I never had any problems at all with

the methotrexate (I give myself one shot a week). I'd say go for it,

it can do great things!

Michele

At 09:38 AM 5/26/2008, you wrote:

<< I have been having severe elbow pain for 6

months or longer. To make a long story short. I have had insurance

problems with getting the Enbrel approved. <snip> >>