What are the most common side effects of methotrexate?

What are the most common side effects of methotrexate? GI problems such as nausea and vomiting are the most common side effects associated with methotrexate, affecting between 20 and 65 percent of RA patients who

What are the most common side effects of methotrexate?

GI problems such as nausea and vomiting are the most common side effects associated with methotrexate, affecting between 20 and 65 percent of RA patients who take the drug. Up to one third develop mouth ulcers or sores. Many also complain of headaches, fatigue and an overall “blah” feeling.

What should you avoid while taking methotrexate?

What should I avoid while taking methotrexate? Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of liver damage. Do not receive a “live” vaccine while using methotrexate, or you could develop a serious infection.

Is methotrexate a strong drug?

Methotrexate is a strong medication. The dosage and how often you take this medication are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. There are many different dosing schedules for this medication (especially for cancer treatment).

Can methotrexate cause you to gain weight?

Methotrexate was shown to cause a modest amount of weight gain over 6 months, in a study measuring weight changes in people with rheumatoid arthritis. The patients who were most likely to gain weight when starting methotrexate, were patients who had recently lost weight due to rheumatoid arthritis.

How long do you stay on methotrexate?

Methotrexate can stay in your body for some time, so you need to stop taking methotrexate at least 6 months before trying for a baby. If you become pregnant while taking methotrexate, do not stop taking your medicine and speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

Is 20mg of methotrexate a lot?

The usual maximum weekly adult dose for oral methotrexate is 20 milligrams (due to increased risk of bone marrow suppression). The usual oral pediatric dose of methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis is 5 to 15 milligrams once weekly.

Does methotrexate make you tired?

Even though MTX is effective in reducing pain and joint damage and improving joint function, patients taking MTX commonly report experiencing fatigue. And it isn’t just a feeling of being tired.

Does methotrexate adversely affect the heart?

In addition to being an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, methotrexate reduces the risk of death from heart disease . This may be because it reduces inflammation, a risk factor for heart disease, and because it affects the cellular mechanisms that lead to the deposition of fat in arterial walls.

Is methotrexate a pain relief medication?

Methotrexate is one of the most effective medications to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It’s the first drug most doctors prescribe after you’re diagnosed. It will help ease symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, redness, and swelling. It may also help prevent damage to your organs and joints.

Can methotrexate cause decreased libido?

methotrexate may cause decreased libido or sex drive in both men and women. However, depending upon the effect it has on your medical condition it might be a short term trade off.

Can methotrexate cause loss of appetite?

Common side effects of methotrexate include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, mouth ulcers, fatigue, and blurred vision. These side effects often have a negative effect on appetite, which sometimes leads to weight loss.