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MTX and steroids

Posted , 4 users are following.

todd86715
todd86715

I have been on MTX for 65 days. My knees are my biggest issues right now. Has anyone used Predinizone while on MTX. I am active and I am struggling with trying to just have fun on a Saturday with no pain. The steroids were a quick fix but I was just wondering

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Yejyde
    Yejyde todd86715

    Posted

    I have oligo-arthritis and suffered swellings on my knees as well. I was on prednisolone too while on MTX tablets but gradually weaned myself off when I started on the MTX injection and now I don't need it anymore.

    I must say, there were painful days during the weaning process but I was determined to get off the steriod after reading some of the long term side effects. Now the stiffness and swellings have stopped even after I do long walks.

    The injection works better for me but I do break out in small rashes which leaves dark spots on my body.

  • mrsmop
    mrsmop todd86715

    Posted

    MTX is a steroid sparing drug.  I was on Prednisolone for 3 years before stopping it last October.  I was on MTX for 18 months before stopping it a month ago because it was causing severe  pain in my hips and legs.  I have an urgent appointment with my prescriber on March 31st!

    Why are you taking MTX?

     

    • Yejyde
      Yejyde mrsmop

      Posted

      Hi Mrsmop,

      Thanks for sharing. I am taking MTX for rheumatoid arthritis and I have to say I have seen an improvement since a year of switching to the injection. It feels good to go through the day without pain or pain killers after 15years. As mentioned in my last post, I get rashes from it and it's getting worse as they now break out in bruises, takes longer to heal and leaves very bad scars. I've been referred to a dermatologist to see if they can help get rid of the scars it leaves behind.

      As much as prednisolone relieves the pain, I wasn't particularly ok with the listed side effects plus my body was beginning to get addicted to it...the pain tripled when it wears away and I had to suffer some painful periods until the next dose was due.

      I guess we all react different and just need to observe how our bodies react to this medication to understand what works best for us.

  • Lisa_Batts
    Lisa_Batts todd86715

    Posted

    Hi Todd,

    I am on MTX and also have been on Prednisone 15mg a day gradually cutting down so I am now on 5mg until I see my specialist in April. They are leaving me on it because I have torn/damaged ligaments in my left knee and ankle which swell up when I come off the prednisone. I would say from what I have learned that the specialists are very keen to get you off the prednisone and often do it too quickly. I was told to cut down by 2.5mg for a couple of weeks and then repeat until down to the 5mg. The other thing I have learned is that the MTX actually takes nearer 4 months to get the full effect rather than the 6 to 8 weeks quoted. Sorry rambling on! Short story!! 😂😂😂 consult your specialist if you feel prednisone helps but come up with a slower reduction plan. Prednisone is very addictive and not good for everybody long term. Wishing you well and sending you ☀️☀️ Sunshine thoughts to make up for my ramble! 😂😂😊

    • todd86715
      todd86715 Lisa_Batts

      Posted

      Thank you Lisa. I am not taking the steroid now. I still play Men's travel softball and the steroid helps me get through a long Saturday of playing in the dirt. This forum is such a great tool to connect and hear other persons dealing with these issues
    • Lisa_Batts
      Lisa_Batts todd86715

      Posted

      Good for you! I personally think excercise is a great healer mentally 😊 when you get the pain just try different things until you see what works for you. Some people swear by heat packs whereas I use ice packs. 😊😊
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