New member here

Hello, , and welcome to the community!

Being newly diagnosed can be a pretty overwhelming time, so however you are feeling right now, well, that's fine and normal.

As far as methotrexate, I think it's smart that you are doing some research on the medication and the information you found seems consistent with my own research. Methotrexate is a pretty strong treatment option and for most folks, they either love it or hate it. There don't seem to be too many people who fall somewhere in the middle. It's also normal to kind of focus on those negative reviews. And, please know that YOU get to decide what medication you go on. If you have reservations, I hope your doctor is open to discussing those reservations with you. I wanted to share this article with you, especially so you can read the many member comments at the end of the article -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/what-to-expect-methotrexate. It may give you some insight as to what to expect with methotrexate. The good thing with methotrexate is that you usually know pretty quickly whether it's a good fit for you or not. That's not always the case, but for many folks, that seems to be the way it goes. I know it would be nice if I could offer some clear guidance for you, but, like everything with RA, it's a highly personal decision that only you can make.

I think it's great that you and your doctor are being proactive about getting a handle on your RA!

You can do this and if you have any further questions or questions following your first dose, please come back here anytime and ask away.

We're happy to help in any way we can.

And please know, you're not alone in this!

Best, Erin, Team Member.

Hey there and welcome! I'm really sorry to hear about your RA diagnosis, but I'm glad you reached out! It's totally normal to feel nervous about starting methotrexate — it’s a powerful drug, and the mixed reviews can be intimidating (especially the bad ones). The good news is that starting with a low dose (10mg) means your doctor will be able to keep an eye on how you're doing and adjust if needed. And please remember, everyone's experience is going to be different and what may didn't work out for some, may work out for you. But it's great that your doing the research and please address all your concerns with your doctor. They can give you more insight and help you feel more at ease. No matter what, you're not alone in this so feel free to share updates or ask anything. We’re here for you! All the best, Latoya (Team Member)

Hi . First, I want to echo Erin's thoughts. Second, on top of the excellent information from Erin I want to note that methotrexate is probably the longest standing RA treatment still in use. It has a very established track record, so the potential side effects to look out for are well known. Many people have used it successfully. That said, I don't want to understate the potential side effects. They are real and if you go this route it is important that certain issues, such as liver function numbers are monitored regularly. Also, note that folic acid is often taken in conjunction with the methotrexate to help mitigate some issues, particularly with the liver. Also, know that if methotrexate turns out to not be the drug for you, there are now quite a few options. This article from our editorial team gives an overview of the available medications: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment/drugs-and-prescription-medications-for-ra. Hope this information and please feel free to keep us posted on how you are doing and to ask additional questions. Best, Richard (Team Member)

3 month update. after 12 weeks of methotrexate, 20mg/wk for last 8 of them. RA has been spreading, now in my toes and hips. Had follow up with doctor last Thu, he wants me to start Enbrel, not sure of the dosage or frequency, but it was a PITA trying to find a pharmacy that would fill the prescription, with provider benefits, that stuff is expensive. had to use the providers preferred pharmacy and now waiting for my dr office to call the prescription in. hopefully will see some better benefits than methotrexate alone.