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Diarrhea and methotrexate

I just started my lose dose med 4 weeks ago and o have lost 14 lbs. I get tired and weak. Is this normal?

  1. Hi, !

    While it is normal to experience some pretty strong side effects on methotrexate, I would definitely contact your doctor and discuss what you are dealing with, if you haven't done so already. That is a LOT of weight to lose in a month and if the diarrhea is affecting your ability to go about your day, that's something to tell your doctor. Fatigue and weakness can also occur, but again, the severity of your symptoms is a bit concerning. Also, if you feel like methotrexate is not a good fit for you, you have the right to tell your doctor you would like to discontinue taking it.

    Gentle Hugs, Erin, Team Member.

    1. Thank you so much. I did contact my RA Dr. His response was to stop taking it, and to see him in a month.

      1. Did he mention an alternative treatment in the meantime until you see him again? -Latoya (Team Member)

    2. No. I wish he would have

      1. Hi . If you are struggling to make it to the appointment to discuss next steps, don't hesitate to reach out to the doctor to see if there is something you can do in the interim. You also might be able to be put on a cancellation list to potentially get an earlier appointment. I want to share with you this article from our editorial team on treatment options (https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment) and this one on drugs and medications (https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment/drugs-and-prescription-medications-for-ra) to hopefully inform further conversations with the doctor. Hoping you find a new treatment soon and please feel free to ask questions here - plenty of people have been where you are. Best, Richard (Team Member)

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