1. Community
  2. Bones, joints and muscles
  3. Methotrexate

Methotrexate + Antibiotics

Posted , 4 users are following.

cockerpoo
cockerpoo

I am taking 4 x 2.5 mg methotrexate tablets every thursday followed by 2 folic acid tablets on Saturday. I am at present run down with a cold, cough, aches and upset stomach. Can I take antibiotics with the above?

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • 1_hand_works
    1_hand_works cockerpoo

    Posted

    Hi, if you can speak to your consultant or team, I would just check about the folic acid. I took 5mg every day apart from the MTX day, as it is supposed to help with the side effects better.

    You have to be really careful which antibiotics you take as there are certain ones which you definitely shouldn't have (these include some penicillins). Your GP can check but there should be some prescription notes with your MTX which tell you which ones you have to avoid. I got a severe infection and needed the antibiotics, so I had to leave off the MTX until I finished my antibiotics. To be quite honest I was that unwell, my joint pains and rash were the last things I was worried about as the infection markers in my blood tests were sky high. If you definitely have an infection and need antibiotics your clinicians may just stop the MTX until you are better. Best to get some blood tests done first to see which antibiotics you need, to make sure you weigh up the pros and cons. Good luck and hope you feel better soon

     

  • patricia73863
    patricia73863 cockerpoo

    Posted

    Hi ! Go see the doctor about your cold and what antibiotics you can take. You can't have your medication if you are sick  or you will get pneumonia . You will need to missed a dose. Get well soon.
  • Lisa_Batts
    Lisa_Batts cockerpoo

    Posted

    Hi

    I've been told by my doctor that whatever antibiotics I am on stop the MTX. It makes a lot of sense because the MTX is an immune suppressant so whilst taking it your body can't fight the infection. I actually stop MTX if I have a bad illness even when not on antibiotics (viral) as it gives the body more fight against the disease.

    This of course is just how I've learned to do it.

    One thing I know for sure is Trimethoprim (antibiotic) with MTX can be fatal ... I know because my previous doctor prescribed it and I ended up in hospital for ten days. This is not actually yet in the 'guide book' they use for interactions although my pharmacist is getting it put in there

    Regards

    Lisa

Back to top

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.