Methotrexate concerns for elderly mother
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My mother suddenly contracted polymyalgia rheumatica which has led to onset of rheumatoid arthritis. She was put on prednisolone which reduced the pain and swelling and made life more comfortable. The consultant now wants to put her on methotrexate and she says steroids have bad side effects for the long term. She is 86, partially sighted and hard of hearing - all of which affects her mobility. Have researched the side effects of methotrexate and am horrified and worried to death! Seems to me the prednisolone has less bad side effects that the methotrexate. Can anyone advise me. She is due to start this toxic medication on Monday.
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Dinah54 gloria36566
Posted
The steroids gave me osteoporosis. I have had no problems at all with mtx.
At least with mtx your blood is regularly tested so it can be stopped immediately if it causes problems. Not so with prednisolone. Many of the side effects are hidden.
gloria36566 Dinah54
Posted
sally83545 gloria36566
Posted
I understand your concerns about the MTX. I have been on MTX for over 15 weeks and the side effects have been rough but get better with each passing week. I understand there is less stomach discomfort with injections. My mother is also 86 and if I were faced with the same issues I would NOT rush to start her on this medication. I suggest that you slow down and take time to evaluate how much pain she is in and how aggressive the RA is at this point. I suggest trying to find a Geriatric Specialist first and see if you can get a consult. The elderly may not need such aggressive treatment. Steroids and pain management might be enough for now. I would start slow and keep re-evaluating as time goes by. What does your Mom want to do? Has she been given the options? The MTX does effect my quality of life, I lose at least one to two days a week to nausea and fatigue (although the severity is getting better). I am 54 it may be harder to bounce back at 86. I also have noticed some dizziness at times and loss of balance. (always bad for a senior). Remember, you have a choice whether to take this medication and when to start. You are in control, it is ok to watch and wait, if she is comfortable and the disease is manageable. The MTX also compromises the immune system, which in an 86 year old is already delicate.
I would wait an watch...research Geriatric care. Good luck, hope she feels better.
Sally
gloria36566 sally83545
Posted
Thanks for your advice.
Gloria
timothy11402 gloria36566
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timothy11402 gloria36566
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gloria36566 timothy11402
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