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Methotrexate and lung function

Posted , 6 users are following.

kate06315
kate06315

I have RA & was on oral MTX till I had serious pneumonia in Aug. I restarted MTX (injected) 4 was ago. My lung function tests in Sep were perfect but the most recent (Dec) showed deterioration so chest consultant said stop MTX. It seems so quick for MTX to affect my lungs, has anyone experienced this problem?

I've been feeling very tired and grumpy since restarting MTX too, with bad mood swings and general lack of enthusiasm - I didn't get these problems after initially starting MTX in 2013, but can't think of anything else that could be causing it as nothing else has changed.

I'd really like to hear others' experiences, thanks

0 likes, 9 replies

9 Replies

  • Lisa_Batts
    Lisa_Batts kate06315

    Posted

    Hi Kate. Sorry to hear of your struggles. I started MTX a month ago and suffered extreme mood swings especially crying a lot. I have just had a week off from it due to an infection and emotionally felt a lot better. I am due to start retaking it Monday. I know it can affect mood but if it is so bad it is affecting your life speak with your specialist and see if there is something they can give you to help. I know this isn't very helpful but I wanted you to know you are not alone and not imagining it or going mad. Seriously I thought I'd hit menopause at the same time the mood swings were so intense! Don't forget also that we are taking this because we are ill which is going to affect our overall mood somewhat. Wishing you the best. Lisa 
    • kate06315
      kate06315 Lisa_Batts

      Posted

      Hi Lisa, thank you so much for your words of encouragement - it helps to know that I am not losing the plot! It makes me feel so horrible, snapping at everyone one minute and tearful the next sad

      However, as I have now been told that I have to stop MTX I guess I'll be back to normal mood soon...that's a relief but it's also a big worry because I think the only 'conventional ' drug they haven't tried on me is azothiaprine, and I've heard really bad things about it, it's toxicity & side effects.  I'm wondering if my consultant might consider prescribing me with one of the new biological drugs, which at first glance sound a better option, but I will need to read up on them some more to be able to make an informed decision.  I do know that they're outrageously expensive, so that might be a problem in my cash-strapped NHS Trust.  If you know anything about these drugs I'd be really interested to hearsmile

      i wish you all the best too, and I hope you have a good Christmas smile

      Kate

    • Lisa_Batts
      Lisa_Batts kate06315

      Posted

      😊 again I'm afraid I can't help with info on the other drugs however coming off the MTX it only took me a few days f
    • Lisa_Batts
      Lisa_Batts

      Posted

      Poop! Sorry. Fingers swollen... Hit wrong key before I was done 😂 ..... It only took a few days for my mood to return to me. Wishing you a very happy Christmas too Kate. I'm back on MTX Monday so Christmas Day should be jolly! Just kidding! I wish you well in your journey to find the right meds 😊 x
  • Ever_hopeful
    Ever_hopeful kate06315

    Posted

    Mood swing & depression soon went in my case because I was so grateful to have movement after crippling RA but I'm interested to hear what others say about lung function as I'm struggling with it and as a non-smoker I didn't expect this.
    • kate06315
      kate06315 Ever_hopeful

      Posted

      I didn't expect my lung function to deteriorate to be honest, as the consultant in chest clinic and my rheumatology consultant were so sure that the pneumonia I had in August was viral, so it was a nasty shock. Also, this time round the MTX didn't seem to be as effective as it had been originally -  little relief but lots of side effects. Its all very odd. I have to wait now until mid January when I'm due to see my rheumatologist- he's very good and I trust his judgement but I am worried about what can be tried now...the only drug I haven't tried is azothiaprine I think, and I've heard so many reports of its toxicity that I would really prefer not to take it.  I'm glad you've got some relief from the pain of RA though - it's wonderful to be able to move without constant pain. Have you reported your lung function concerns? 

      Wishing you well and happy Christmassmile Kate

  • Leeha
    Leeha kate06315

    Posted

    Hi Kate . . . I have Crohn's Disease and was prescribed Azothiaprine prior to being on the Mtx. On the third week of taking the Azothiaprine, I developed pancreatitis which was very painful. I have a few side effects from the Mtx and one of them are headaches. Look into other alternatives if you can rather than the Azothiaprine. That was just my experience and hopefully yours will be a better one.
  • lucynewas
    lucynewas kate06315

    Posted

    you can self refer to IAPT for help if the tired and grumpiness doesn't go.
  • carolbrady1
    carolbrady1 kate06315

    Posted

    Hi, not to worry you but my dad passed away last week possibly due to MTX. His lungs were completely useless. Still waiting for coroner's sign off as looking into.
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