methotrexate

[Guest guest]

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

  -----

[Guest guest]

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

> > -----

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

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

-----

[Guest guest]

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

> -----

>

>

[Guest guest]

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

    -----

 

[Guest guest]

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?

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[Guest guest]

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?

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[Guest guest]

--- 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. >

[Guest guest]

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

)

[Guest guest]

>

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 )

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

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.

[Guest guest]

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

)

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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. >

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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

[Guest guest]

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?

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[Guest guest]

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?

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000000

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[Guest guest]

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 )

[Guest guest]

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)

[Guest guest]

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>

> >

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

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)

[Guest guest]

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)

[Guest guest]

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>

> 

------------------------------------