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New RA sufferer...scared to start methotrexate before a holiday

Posted , 5 users are following.

brooke85245
brooke85245

So reading everyones responses has really helped me. I am 34 years old and have recently been prescribed methotrexate as they have only just confirmed I had RA (despite symptoms for a year). I have booked a holiday to Hawaii next week and am too scared to start the treatment as obviously I don't know how it will effect me. I don't want to be sick and unable to have a cocktail over there. I am being pressured from family and Doctors to start treatment asap, but cant see why waiting 18 days is going to make a difference. I have been drinking quite a lot this year (as I am going through a divorce, and it has helped with the pain. This will also be a problem, as I'll need to get a new quieter social life. Do most people get nausea from this drug? Rashes and hair loss is also worrying me as I work in hospitality and can't really afford this. What would people do? My RA is manageable with high doses of ant-inflammatories at the moment.

0 likes, 13 replies

13 Replies

  • lucynewas
    lucynewas brooke85245

    Posted

    No harm in waiting.  Take some rosehip gopo (max dose) with you and anti- inflammatory medicines such as voltarol available over the counter. Don't forget to take them with food or ask pharmacist about anti acid meds. 
  • joanne27239
    joanne27239 brooke85245

    Posted

    If you can wait a couple of weeks then I woud do that. The benefits of an enjoyable holiday will probably have more effect than the medication for two weeks. 

    Start it as soon as you get back. 

    I never had  rashes. Slight hair loss but not that you would notice. I do however, get nausea but you can get anti sickness tablets for that. 

    I've been in it 5 years now and it's had a great effect on the pain and my skin. 

    Hope this helps

    Jo x

    • brooke85245
      brooke85245 joanne27239

      Posted

      Thanks Joanne....I hope it helps my pain too. It has been a tough year and not being able to move has added to my lows. I already have thin hair so am not looking forward to that potential side effect. What anti-nausea drug do you suggest?
    • joanne27239
      joanne27239 brooke85245

      Posted

      I take metoclopramide. They are really good and work within 10 mins. 

      If you can get them I recomend them highly

  • maggie15623
    maggie15623 brooke85245

    Posted

    I am sure you should enjoy your planned holiiday first and start the medication when you return.  You say you are managing with the anti-inflammatories ok meanwhile. Will you be on tablets or injection?  Not everyone suffers with all the side effects and you may be one of the lucky ones.  Anyway I have found the Mtx to be so beneficial  it seems worth it!  Have a great holiday.
    • brooke85245
      brooke85245 maggie15623

      Posted

      Thanks Maggie, I will be on the tablets, 20mg a week. How long have you been on Mtx? I was hoping I would not have to be on it too long.
    • maggie15623
      maggie15623 brooke85245

      Posted

      Hi Brooke, I started on tablets and then was changed to injection.  After 4 years I have just been reduced to 7.5 mg every 2 weeks.  So going in the right direction and hope it lasts.    Good luck.
  • lucynewas
    lucynewas brooke85245

    Posted

    Hi Brooke

    I'm on 20mg per week that I split into two half doses (Tues & Fri).  That reduced the side effects massively for me.

    • brooke85245
      brooke85245 lucynewas

      Posted

      Ok good to know... although I'm told just once a week. I'm hoping no side effects...but will speak to the doctor about this option if I feel too sick. Thanks
    • lucynewas
      lucynewas brooke85245

      Posted

      It's easier to remember if you can tolerate one weekly dose, but if not, set a phone reminder on the two nights you need to take it.  That's what I do - and it really helps.
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