Methotrexate.
Last updated Friday, February 11, 2005
Deciding to start MethotrexateHow should a person with arthritis talk to a doctor about taking methotrexate? The decision to start methotrexate or any second-line drug is a
critical part of the treatment of a child or adult with rheumatoid
arthritis. It is important for a specialist in arthritis to be a part
of this decision. If you are under the care of another type of doctor,
it is appropriate to ask about a consultation with an arthritis
specialist before you begin treatment with methotrexate. Since
methotrexate is used for other conditions, other doctors completely
familiar with the effects of methotrexate may dispense and monitor the
drug, but periodic re-evaluation with a arthritis specialist is
recommended for people with RA and JRA.
What are some tips for using methotrexate safely? Taking your medication incorrectly can result in serious side
effects. To gain the greatest benefit from methotrexate, follow this
advice:
- Learn about methotrexate.
- Take the prescribed amount. Remember: It's a once a week, not a daily dose.
- Keep your scheduled appointments for doctor visits and lab tests.
- Don't take any other medications without first checking with your doctor.
- Refrain from use of alcohol.
- Tell
your doctor if you are: allergic to any medicines; taking any other
medications, including vitamins or over-the-counter drugs; or have any
other medical problems, especially kidney, liver, or lung disease.
As with other drugs used to treat adult and juvenile RA, there is no
guarantee that methotrexate will work for everyone. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis who do not respond to methotrexate
often are good candidates for surgical reconstruction of their damaged
joints, such as total hip arthroplasty, total knee arthroplasty, and total shoulder arthroplasty. However, many
arthritis specialists agree that when methotrexate is properly used,
the risk of side effects is less than the risk to your health from the
disease itself. Talk to your doctor about your disease and the
treatments available to you. Communication between you and your doctor
is important. Credits The Arthritis Foundation and the University of Washington Department
of Orthopaedics do not endorse any brand name or generic name
medication listed here.
Some of this material may also be available in an Arthritis Foundation
brochure. Contact the Washington/Alaska Chapter Helpline: (800)
542-0295. If dialing from outside of WA and AK, contact the National
Helpline: (800) 283-7800.
Adapted from a pamphlet originally prepared for the Arthritis Foundation. This material is protected by copyright. Disclaimer
This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.
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