Alternative to methatrexate?

Hi Shani,

sorry to hear your other half is going through a tough time and I don't know of any natural alternatives. However, there are many other DMARDs available, Sulphasalazine and Leflunomide are the 2 I was prescribed following methotrexate induced hepatitis. The next line of defence are the anti TNF biological treatments such as Enbrel or Humira. May I suggest you and your partner jot down dates, name of infection, name of treatment and length and take this to the next rheumatologist appointment. Wishing you success.

Dear Shani

He could try taking probiotics to help to boost his immune system.  The NHS has now done a review of the evidence that GOPO Roship (2 capsules 3x per day to start with) is effective in managing joint inflammation - I can't post the link here or the post will need to be moderated, but if you search for it in google, you should find it.  You can start to reduce the dose once the effect kicks in (I now take 2 capsules a day).

I've been taking Rosehip since 2006 with good effect until I had a major flare up and am on methotrexate 20 mg, which I split into two 10 mg doses on Tuesdays and Fridays.  I manage the mouth ulcers by dipping my finger in salt and holding it on the ulcer, which seems to do the trick.

Probiotics should reduce the need for and counter the side effects of the antibiotics.  Keep me posted with the results.

As Sheila says, sulphasalazine is less aggressive and toxic than methotrexate and less immunosuppressant effect.

Many thanks for all your helpful comments.  I shall pass them on to my partner and keep you posted on progress.

Best wishes

Shani