CONFUSED AND FRUSTRATED
Posted , 4 users are following.
I am trying to understand why after only 2 weeks on arava, and stopping due to fatigue and depression and backache, that when i went to have my blood checked it showed considerable elevated ast and alt. my RA doc didnt seem to be at all concerned and said to go ahead and try metrotrexate. to me, it is not logical or safe to start another DMARD unitl seeing my levels go down to where they should be before starting another drug. thoughts?
please advise.
0 likes, 3 replies
natasa24657 deena13493
Posted
hi
it takes a while for any of the drugs to work two weeks is not enough time for it to take effect methotrexate is good but you will need regular blood test to check your liver function as it can go up so please make sure you get a blood test every two weeks and they should also give you folic acid hope this helps with fatigue you will also suffer that as i do unfortunately
deena13493 natasa24657
Posted
i just had blood work from my primary for yearly check up and my liver enzymes were through the roof. i specifically think it is from the arava i took for two weeks. they want me to start on methatrexate but i will not until my liver panels are checked again and they are normal. i have a funny feeling i am not going to be able to take any ra drugs because it appears my systems cannot handle them.
deena
jo66120 deena13493
Posted
Deena, I think you are wise to wait for your enzymes to return to normal. Not all drugs cause the same problem. I tried Arava for a week and it caused severe diarrhea to the point of being dehydrated. Took me 2 days of drinking lots and lots of water to just feel right. I am on Methotrexate for 5 years and no problems. Good luck to you and I hope everything works out.