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med- and RA-related side effects ?

Posted , 4 users are following.

BrainScribbles
BrainScribbles

I recently dook my 5th dose of methotrexate.  After a day or so, I start to become worried that RA is becoming wose, not better.  For examle, after taking meds late friday night, I had more swelling/pain in right ankle, which was disappointing as the foot-related RA had been reducing to almost nothing.  Anyone else have flares/mini flares shortly after mex?

Also, tinnitus anyone?  I began having tinnitus a year or so before RA diagnosis, probably due to taking aspirin too frequently.  It seems a bit louder, perhaps due to sulfasalazine.  Anyone find a way to improve this?

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • lrevenden
    lrevenden BrainScribbles

    Posted

    I started getting tinnitus when I was taking mtx, it was usually more on the evening I took my dose and it would ease up a bit as the week went on but never totally went away
  • lrevenden
    lrevenden BrainScribbles

    Posted

    I started getting tinnitus when I was taking mtx, it was usually more on the evening I took my dose and it would ease up a bit as the week went on but never totally went away
  • slm222
    slm222 BrainScribbles

    Posted

    Definitely, BrainScribbles. When I was put on Methotrexate (I was originally on Arava/Leflunomide), my RA got worse, my fatigue felt worse and the side effects are awful. I don't know why they consider it the 'gold standard' of DMARDS. I think it's an awful drug. I know it works for some people, but I think as with all drugs, everyone's body is different and we have to find what works best for ourselves. I had a BIG flare after starting the MTX. 

    I have minor tinnitus but I don't know that it was RA caused. I think it's all the loud concerts I went to as a teenager and the fact that I blast my ear buds, so I don't think I'd be much help with that one. wink 

  • tony38011
    tony38011 BrainScribbles

    Posted

    I was on mtx for eight years with no tinnitus. Was taken off it for approx one year then put back on it. A couple of weeks later I started getting tinnitus for the first time in my life, mild at first but gradually got worse.  All my RA  meds were stopped four months ago due to complications caused by another more recent chronic health condition. The tinnitus has gradually decreased. I still get it now and again but far less often and it is nowhere near as loud. So in my case at least, mtx does appear to be the culprit.

     

  • BrainScribbles
    BrainScribbles

    Posted

    well, the tinnitus started before I began taking meds.  I was wondering if meds might make the tinnitus worse or better, if it was related to the RA, or if there are any home remedies that worked for others.  I saw a specialist about it and he had not suggestions.  I'll try (almost) anything!
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