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Posted 6/24/2010 2:22 PM (GMT 0)
Has this happened to anyone?

I have always tolerated MTX very well. I have been on it 2 1/2 years.

I'm not sure but I think I am seeing a pattern of stomach ills lately. Diarrhea, upset stomachs, occasional vomiting.  It seems to start the evening I take my MTX.

Do you think it's related or a coincidence? It's been like this since around Memorial Day. I just can't see it bothering me after all these years of no stomach problems.

Posted 6/24/2010 10:39 PM (GMT 0)
It can start bothering you at any point. Do you also take NSAIDS?
Either way it is time to report all of these symptoms to your primary physician and your rhuematologist.
Posted 6/29/2010 4:13 PM (GMT 0)
I've been on MTX for several years, and this summer I have had sun sensitivity to the point of rashes/blisters. I told my rheumy this last visit and he said while it was unusual this late in the game, it is not unheard of and that MTX can show side effects at any time.
Posted 6/30/2010 2:33 PM (GMT 0)
I have an appointment in July- I'll mention it then. I do not take NSAIDS.
My belly is just a mess.
Posted 7/1/2010 12:23 AM (GMT 0)
How much folic acid are you taking?  Folic Acid protects you from some of the side effects of the methotrexate.
Posted 7/1/2010 1:08 AM (GMT 0)
I was going to say the exact same thing as Sjkly, how much folic acid and how often? Definately mention it, are you still having your monthly blood tests? Check your liver function is still ok.

Goodluck, golitho
Posted 7/1/2010 2:13 AM (GMT 0)
I take 1 mg folic acid a day. I have blood work every two months. I sure hope these stomach problems are not because my liver enzymes are high- I do drink more than I am supposed too...specially now that summer is here. I hate RA and MTX.
Posted 7/3/2010 1:43 PM (GMT 0)
Try upping the folic acid. I upped mine to 3 mgs a day-it took care of the side effects. My rhuemy now scripts it for me at 3 mgs a day.
Posted 7/12/2010 10:20 PM (GMT 0)
I recently went to my GI doctor for a visit and I haven't been in since I was diagnosed with the gastroparesis, and I really wonder if it has to do with the MTX, since I'm fairly certain it is the cause of my osteoporosis. I'm really beginning to think it is isn't worth it, (the MTX) and at this point, really considering switching to something else.
Posted 7/13/2010 2:12 AM (GMT 0)
what's gastroparesis?

My doctor says any more folic acid negates the MTX.....
Posted 7/24/2010 2:08 AM (GMT 0)
i want to know more about increasing the folic acid... should i consult my rheumatologist before doing this, or is it okay to try on my own?
Posted 7/24/2010 11:14 AM (GMT 0)
I believe you should always consult your personal doctor when making medication changes.
Posted 7/29/2010 4:29 PM (GMT 0)
Are you taking mtx in pill form or injection?  We first tried me on it in pill form and it really bothered my stomach, so we switched to injections and then I never had any stomach issues (just liver problems). 

Posted 7/29/2010 5:15 PM (GMT 0)
pill form

I must have had some kind of stomach bug or something because the problem stopped.
Posted 7/29/2010 10:39 PM (GMT 0)
i experienced all these on oral MTX tablets at doses of 15mg. I did not experience these at doses of 25mg when injected into the stomach or leg.

I do however, when injecting, have EXTREME exhaustion for the following day. I often inject MTX, go to bed normally, and awaken at 8pm the following evening, expecting it to be nice and early in the morning to start my day! it is amusingly disorientated, it's a good job I'm self employed!
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