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methotrexate

Posted , 8 users are following.

sarah96274
sarah96274

Hi all I'm due to start taking this drug soon. I've had an chest x-ray done witch was told was normal.... But now I've had a letter from the hospital saying I need a heart and lung test..... is this normal to have done before hand?

0 likes, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • joyce32759
    joyce32759 sarah96274

    Posted

    Hi Sarah

    You are fortunate to be having h&lung test as Metho.can damage them both.

  • joe88085
    joe88085 sarah96274

    Posted

    My understanding is the docs want to establish a baseline before starting. Mine was concerned about liver and kidney function so we did that.  good luck.
  • AllyClan
    AllyClan sarah96274

    Posted

    Hi Sarah,  Methotrexate can really give your body a hard time, so the more tests and tracking that gets done the better. Monthly blood test etc are all worthwhile and if you don't keep up with what they ask you to do, the docs may we'll pull you off the drug.

    I'm now off Methotrexate because of sickness on the drug, but many people also don't have any issues, but either way, take all the test etc they offer...

  • Babyhog2
    Babyhog2 sarah96274

    Posted

    Sarah do all the testing they offer, it is good to have a baseline! I've been on methotrexate for over 10 years, just had a liver test done to be sure no damage! It was good & the liver specialist said I could stay on it 3 more years before we test again.

    Now I do not drink much, which is important they say. I'm a social drinker like a one glass of wine every 6 weeks are so......try to follow what my dr advised. Good luck I hope it helps you.

  • julie54928
    julie54928 sarah96274

    Posted

    Hi. I had these tests done to . Nothing to worry about . Think I had it done because I had other conditions.
  • sissie1012
    sissie1012 sarah96274

    Posted

    Yes you need these tests. Lewis Gale RA Dept. Salem VA did not do these on me prior to starting the meds beginning with METHOTREXATE and 18 months later UVA discovered a mass on my lung and extreme high liver enzymes which is leading into further testing of the liver. Deems you are getting good care. The meds caused this to me.
  • Cacou_2017
    Cacou_2017 sarah96274

    Posted

    Hi Sarah,

    yes I had the tests too! I had a constant cough, they found some thickening in my lung linings caused by the RA!

    Heart test was fine!!

    Dont worry, it's good that you are being thoroughly checked!!

    take care ??

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