Methotrexate, how is it given?

you can take it orally, or by injection
I use the injection because it is easier to absorb.

Pills hurt my stomach so we switched to injections and then my stomach was fine.  It really helped but it also raised my liver enzymes so I had to stop taking it.  I hope it helps your son!

I never had any problems other than the liver enzymes.  Hair loss is the biggest complaint I've heard others have, but I took folic acid daily and never lost any hair.  So many drugs sound scary if you read all of the side effects.  In my case, it was worth all of the risks because it really helped for the short time I was able to take it.  Nothing has worked like that before or since. 

My mom takes MTX for RA. It's the only drug that has helped her other than prednisone. She gets checked every 4 weeks for liver function etc. So far, knock on wood, everything is fine.

She did lose a lot of hair in the beginning and suffered from nausea and tiredness after each dose. Upping the dose of folic acid and taking biotin supplements helped stop the hair loss somewhat. Over time, she has not felt as tired or nauseous after the dose.

It's been about a year now, and she's doing ok. When my hubby went to the rheumatologist, she really pushed MTX, because she says it is a drug that works really well for arthritis. I hope it works for your son, and doesn't cause any bad side effects.

It's always hard when your loved one is sick, especially when you know the possible dangers. Hugs. Hopefully he'll find long lasting relief with MTX.

PV