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Original poster

RA drug change

4 replies

Campolini · 29/09/2022 22:07

Hi

I've been on sulfasalazine since I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis (was breastfeeding and only one I was allowed)

Anyway, I'm now over a year post diagnosis. I'm still in daily pain, had the steroids and all that but just without anything I'm stiff and sore and my grip is horrendous.

I also have been told I have fibromyalgia, and Alopecia areata, my dermatologist recommended that I go onto methatrexate as with its bad stuff it is good for hair / skin growth.

My rheumatologist is not keen to change my drugs even throughout flares and the constant pain I feel.

Can I request to change? I just feel so fed up I'm not even 30 yet and I'm just falling to pieces 😢

OP posts:
MackenCheese · 29/09/2022 22:09

Methotrexate is a game changer. Go for it. I did, and its totally fine (you take it once a week). But you must keep up with the regular blood tests so that the dose is right.

Original poster
Campolini · 29/09/2022 22:11

MackenCheese · 29/09/2022 22:09

Methotrexate is a game changer. Go for it. I did, and its totally fine (you take it once a week). But you must keep up with the regular blood tests so that the dose is right.

I want to, but consultant is reluctant. I'm just wondering what grounds I have to pretty much demand it?

Something isn't right with me and I just can't keep going on like this.

I feel like he wants my bloods to be in the toilet before he will do anything. Which doesn't help me suffering daily.

OP posts:
NeverDropYourMooncup · 29/09/2022 22:20

I'm not sure that MTX is that great for hair growth, but if your disease is not well controlled as it is, it could make a huge difference to add it in - and once you've tried it for a decent period (hint - ask for injectable from the outset and make sure you take the folic acid as directed on non MTX days - they can prescribe it for up to 6 out of seven days if the side effects aren't tolerable on once a week), if it isn't right for you, you're on the pathway for biologics.

You could also request a steroid depot to tide you over your current flare - they can last up to about 3 months and if you have a good response, that can also give weight to the argument for further medication.

Original poster
Campolini · 29/09/2022 22:34

NeverDropYourMooncup · 29/09/2022 22:20

I'm not sure that MTX is that great for hair growth, but if your disease is not well controlled as it is, it could make a huge difference to add it in - and once you've tried it for a decent period (hint - ask for injectable from the outset and make sure you take the folic acid as directed on non MTX days - they can prescribe it for up to 6 out of seven days if the side effects aren't tolerable on once a week), if it isn't right for you, you're on the pathway for biologics.

You could also request a steroid depot to tide you over your current flare - they can last up to about 3 months and if you have a good response, that can also give weight to the argument for further medication.

Thank you. Yeah I'be had the steroid injections which do help for around 8 weeks. Im due another shortly but have to wait to have an scan on my hands before I can have it. Just willing to try anything to not be in pain.

Hoping if the injection wares off and the pain is back he will change the meds. He is quite a difficult doctor to deal with he is so blunt and dismissive

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