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Treatments > Drug Guide > Drug News & Info > General Medications News > Solutions to Medication Side Effects
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Solutions to Medication Side Effects

Make the Good Outweigh the Bad

To minimize the risk of prescription medication side effects, your doctor should prescribe the lowest dose of a medication that helps, and you should let your doctor know of any medical problems you have or medications you are already taking. Keep in mind that some potentially serious problems can be detected only by regular lab tests ordered by your doctor.

If you experience serious prescription medication side effects, your doctor may decide to stop a drug. In other cases, you and your doctor can try to relieve side effects as you continue to take the drug and gain its benefits by trying the following: 

MEDICATION SIDE EFFECT: STOMACH UPSET and NAUSEA
CULPRITS: NSAIDs, DMARDs
POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:

Take the medication with food.

Take a once-daily NSAID in the afternoon or evening, instead of the morning.

Take NSAIDs with a drug that reduces stomach acid. These come in two types and include cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine hydrochloride (Zantac), esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec).

Switch from an oral DMARD to an injected form. For severe problems, ask about anti-nausea and vomiting drugs such as granisetron (Kytril) or metoclopramide (Reglan).

MEDICATION SIDE EFFECT: STOMACH ULCERS
CULPRITS: NSAIDs
POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:

Add misoprostal (Cytotec) to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and promote healing of existing ulcers. Misoprostol comes in a combination product called Arthrotec, which also contains the NSAID diclofenac sodium.

Switch to celecoxib (Celebrex), a type of NSAID called a COX-2 that has less risk of stomach ulcers.

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol mixed with NSAIDs can increase gastric bleeding.

Avoid taking an NSAID with another medication, such as an OTC cold remedy, which could also contain an NSAID and increase your risk of ulcers.

MEDICATION SIDE EFFECT: INSOMNIA
CULPRITS: CORTICOSTEROIDS
POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:

Take a once-daily dose in the morning.

Avoid stimulants such as caffeine that exacerbate sleeplessness.

MEDICATION SIDE EFFECT: DRY MOUTH
CULPRITS: ANTIDEPRESSANTS, NARCOTIC ANALGESICS
POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:

Moisten your mouth with sugar-free gum or hard candies, or by sucking on ice chips.

Try saliva substitutes, such as Salivart, Xerolube or Glandosan.

Avoid alcohol or alcohol-containing mouthwashes that can make dry mouth worse.

MEDICATION SIDE EFFECT: MOUTH ULCERS
CULPRITS: METHOTREXATE
POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:

Avoid salty or spicy foods or excess citrus fruits that can irritate ulcers

Try topical pain relievers such as Oragel or Zilactin or ask your doctor or dentist about a prescription rinse or mouthwash to help ulcers heal.

 

Pat B
20 Nov 2009, 11:53
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I was diagnosed with RA about six months ago. Since then, I have been on various doses of Prednisone and Methotrexate (both oral and injections). I am still having negative reactions and not a lot of relief. After reading all the above comments, I am very discouraged. There doesn't seem to be any solution to getting better and staying better. I am 74 years old, if that makes any difference in my reaction to the meds.
Diane
19 Nov 2009, 16:52
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Oops! after Orencia it was Rituxan Sorry.
Diane
19 Nov 2009, 16:48
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I was diagnosed with RA about 4 yrs ago. I'm 51 & had an allergic reaction to Remicade, which was working great. Then I was on Orencia, which didn't work at all, then Remicade, pain free about 3 months, & couldn't take more for another 3 months.Oh, I forgot methotrexate, which gave me an elbow nodule, that has finally gone away. all The while I was on Prednizone. Had to change doctors due to insurance change, she put me on Enbrel weekly injections, I have been weened of Prednizone & lost 51lbs on Weight Watchers. I haven't felt this good in years!!! Hopefully it continues!!!
Karen
17 Nov 2009, 20:50
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THIS IS FOR TERESA WHO POSTED: 18 Aug 2009, 13:33. fetchdog.com has a leash called a "roamer leash" which attaches around your waist
Roamer™ Dog Leash Item #A10020W Price: $26.75
so that you can walk your dog hands free. I have OA in my hip so walking my dog is difficult but it sounds like your problem is with your hands. If your legs are ok, this leash would allow you to once again enjoy walking your dog. I wish you luck.
pam
03 Nov 2009, 22:04
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It is hard when you are diagnosed with RA, but it is best to be aggressive with the disease and get into remission as soon as possible, otherwise you risk having alot of joint damage, not to mention heart problems! I have had it for 20 years, and have been on most meds that are available. I have recently went from Orencia to the new self injectable Simponi. You take it once a month, and knock on wood, it seems to be working. I also take prednisone, plaquenil, folic acid, (stops blisters from forming in mouth from methotrexate), methotrexate, 800 mg. motrin 3 times a day, actonel once a month, and ambien to sleep. This concoction does work for me, and hopefully will for awhile. Enbrel worked for me for many years, but my body became immune to it a couple years ago,when menopause started, and it was hell and a long haul to get things back under control with other meds. Good luck to all, and even though a side effect of the disease is exhaustion, the stiffness is being controlled. Remicade gave me an underlying rash that you could see but not feel. Dr. sent me to a Dermo, but it was the medication. Went to Orencia and just didn't get the results needed, so now its Simponi, in which I'm impressed so far.
The best advise is to make sure you are with a Rheumatologist, it is their specialty, and they can without a doubt give you the best care and know the best meds for you to try.
Good luck to all!
Eva Ziem
27 Oct 2009, 14:21
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My answer to N.Sambra who wrote on 03 Jun 2009, 13:15
"Good afternoon, I read all of those emails that people send,
but my question is: who answers their questions? I see many people
suffering with their medicines and nobody in this Arthritis Foundation
answers. What is your purpose? Could you please answer to those emails?
Thank you, NS"

Dear N.Sambra,

I also read this page and want to cry over all of you, all of us...
I have arthritis in my hands and have my share of ordeals with my meds.

There is no answer! Nobody can fix these peoples' problems.
The pharmaceutical industry is trying but the side effects are so severe
that these medications should have never been approved and I do not
understand why they are for sale... other than for a profit purpose.
I am not an enemy of the pharmaceutical industry that made a number of
medication for acute illnesses that work. However with chronic conditions,
it must be THE WRONG DIRECTION*... Chemical nature of our bodies is
too complex and that is why the chemical treatments are so extremely dangerous.
The illnesses that are chemical in nature and also chronic seem to be
impossible to fix with the current state of our knowledge.

Look at the mechanic intervention to our body. There is a blockage of the
artery and a surgery can fix it, just like that! Here is the difference....

Part of the problem is that doctors PUSH these medications onto unaware
patients, but ultimately, it is the patients' roll to be skeptical
rather than submit to the "doctor's orders." I understand when someone
suffers he/she is not able to do research each RX, therefore we are
at the square one.

----------------
*Perfect example: I am looking at the pamphlet on Celebrex published by its
maker Pfizer, printed in USA/June 2007.
In the section "What you need to remember" in item 7, it says
"All NSAIDs, including Celebrex, should be taken AT THE LOWEST DOSE POSSIBLE
FOR THE SHORTEST TIME." Yes, this is the case when we have a flu or a
headache, an acute condition that will pass in a few days, but not the
arthritis! Arthritis (which Celebrex is for) will never go away and to help
with the pain and inflammation, one has to take a pill every day, therefore
Celebrex is no applicable for arthritis that is prescribed for.
Marion
15 Oct 2009, 17:06
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I am 55.have been on diclofenic for a long period.Then for the last 4 years i have been on sulfersalazine,then methotrexate,atorvastatine for colesterole,and more recently ibruprofen.All these have given me very bad side effects i felt doomed i felt so ill.the statin affected my thigh muscles so much i could barely walk at all.the seriouse side affects were all mentioned every time i saw the GP and the rumatologist they just seemed to ignore my comments.one by one i stopped taking them the last because of very bad chest pains .i am now not taking anything for the OA and RA and synjons syndrome.just cod liver oil and cholecalciferol vitamin D and after 2 months dont i feel a whole lot better.i am on blood pressure tablets and 200mg of thyroxine.i strongly beleive some or all of these tablets have possibly helped me to put on 6 stone over the last 5 years now i am looking into stopping the thyroxine.I try to be possitive about what i do and i think eating eating fresh strawberrys,raspberrys,runner beens,raw carrots,tomatoes straight from my raised container garden with the fresh air whilst looking after my chickens and plants is better than having all the side effects.My 4 little dogs give me reason to be possitive we do about 2 miles a day with my mobility scooter.i just wish i could talk to the people above in person we could all help each other.By the way i forgot to add i do take painkillers of different strengths as and when i need them but not full time.
angel
13 Oct 2009, 18:19
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I have R.A. take preisone been to scared to try anything. I am to start humira in two days but i am so scared, can someone call me if they have been on this med 757 4035897 thanks so much
Natia
13 Oct 2009, 09:34
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My sister is 41 now and its 7 years already since she has been dignosed with RA. she is taking a lot of pills on daily basis, sometimes she takes some injections as well. but she still suffers with pain in hands, especially in mornings, has headaches. periodically needs to cure anemia, has face redness..recently, I heard about Actemra. could you advise whether how effective the drug is and how much is the risk of side effect and shorten of life. thanks in advance. Natia
Shawn
06 Oct 2009, 16:12
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I've been taking methotrexate for a year now and wouldnt give it up for anything. I take folic acid the day before I take it, the day I take it and the day after. That has helped tremendously with the side effects. I was on Humira for about 3 months but it did not do enough for me to go thru the side effects of it. My doctor wants me to take Remicaide but I'm not certain. Life is tough with RA no doubt. There are days I just dont want to do it anymore but I keep hoping that I find the right combination of medication.
Jan L. Boldon
02 Oct 2009, 03:04
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Beware of Methotrexate. I have osteoarthritis and was recently diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. I was given methotrexate in June 09 I had no side effects that I knew of until it became progressively harder and harder to breathe. This is now October, I just spent 6 days in the hospital with hypoxia believed to be caused by the damage the methotrexate did to my lungs. The response of the docs is that they hope the damage is reversable. Meanwhile I am in a wheelchair with a nasal cannula for Oxygen 24/7 Yes, drugs to have horrible side effects. Now, they are checking my kidneys because they are not filetering well. Was there any benefit of taking methotrexate for me, none that I can see.
Jolene
05 Sep 2009, 09:11
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I have been on Hydroxycloroquine for 2 years now for my RA. I just started getting severe head pain and ringing in the ears for 2 months now. Does anyone know if this is a side effect of the medicine? I've had a CT scan done( nothing showed up)and been on 3 different antibiotics, with no success. The pain is in my sinus area. Any suggestions?
Marie
02 Sep 2009, 09:56
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Hi, I was diagnosed with RA about 3 years ago.
I started the treatment with methotrexate and cortisone, then moved on to Humira. I felt great with Humira for about a year, then started having very bad side-effects and had to stop. I haven't taken any medication since May (so that's about 4 months) and am feeling quite ok (amazingly!). I did try Arava for 2 weeks in July, but started itching all over and stopped it right away. Now I really don't feel like taking anything anymore because of all the side effects. I know my doctor wants me to try another type of biological medication, but I'm afraid of the side effects.
I think doctors sometimes don't take into consideration that people are not just a bunch of joints, but human beings with a life, jobs, families. I agree with one comment above saying that we're being treated like guinea pigs.
Not easy.....!
It would be nice if this web side wrote an article about anti-TNFs and the balance between benefits and side-effects. I'd like to hear what other people in the same kinds of situations have done.

Thanks and good luck to all of you!
Suzanne
01 Sep 2009, 20:16
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I was diagnosed with RA 2+years ago and was treated with Methotrexate and and a low dose of Prednisone (5mg). After a flare up last January my doctor suggested trying a biologic. I started on Remicade and had 3 infusions. After my last infusion I became short of breath which became progressively worse. I went to the emergency room and was diagnosed with PCP Pneumonia, a very serious Pneumonia that only effects people with compromised immune systems and people with AIDS. I was hospitalized for 3 weeks and will have to be on prophylactic antibotics indefinitely. All of these drugs cause immune suppression, however I am convinced the Remicade was the culprit. Please read up on the side effects of these drugs before starting them.
Gaye
19 Aug 2009, 17:25
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I have had RA for 32 years [half my life] and have been on everything and had all the side effects that you have talked about. Nothing works forever, and you just have to keep trying different things until you find one that works, and sometimes, it only works for a little while and then you have to change your protocol again. I have finally accepted that I have a chronic condition that is going to get progressively worse, and that is just a fact, unless someone does find a cure. I am in pain a lot of the time, and my deformities limit my physical activity, but I have found that arthritis support groups, reading and learning everything I can about RA, and the understanding and support of my family have been my biggest gifts. My fatigue and depression in addition to the pain are the hardest to deal with. I try to work with my doctor, but like all of you, I get very discouraged. All we can do is hang in there and keep on keeping on. With joint replacements, special shoes, modalities, we can live a fairly normal life, just limited. I was told years ago, that if your pain medication is for real pain, you cannot get addicted, and I believe that. I have taken ES tylenol, loratab, ultram, and now am on percocet....because as your body gets accustomed to each pain med, it stops working. I have never become addicted to any of it because I only take it as needed, and as prescribed. I think about what RA was like years ago, when people ended up in wheelchairs immobilized and unable to move, and think how far we have come with the surgeries and medications we have today. It is a depressing disease but it could be much worse.
Marty
18 Aug 2009, 14:19
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I liked the premise of your article. I would like to know more about the side effect of cognitive slowing due to methotrexate or other RA medications.
Teresa
18 Aug 2009, 13:33
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I am 45 dx with RA 8 month ago and on METHX now eight pills once weekly, does anyone else take this medicine all at once. I feel like crap for 3 days then it lets up just long enough that the pain takes over again. I take prescription Naproxin, but it only eases the pain, nothing I have tried relieves the pain. I have been involved in yoga, and stretching twice weekly if I go more that I cannot sleep for the pain. I have hair loss and swelling and am really getting depressed that I cannot ride my bike or walk my dogs because I cannot make a fist tight enough to apply the breaks or hold the leash tight. You are told to lose weight, exercise and eat the right foods, well when you exercise you cannot move for days with pain and most foods make you sick because of the medicine what is one to do. One would think that the doctors would read these blogs and work with us, I know everyone is different and most reactions are based on individuality but when you have so many with the same results they should be able to define the problem and find a solution. Well that's my two cents worth maybe we can find a solution our selves and get the relief we all want.
Ayesha
18 Aug 2009, 11:52
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I am 49 years old, was diagnosed with RA about six years ago. I am currently taken predinone, and plaquein, was feeling better, then most who take almost 15 pills a day for relief, then doctor tried to wean me off the steroid, and I went into a bad mode of fatigue and insomia. I just want to be active and productive like most individuals. I do not want to have to take pills every day before I go to work. And I don't want to be helpless that my family have to wait on me hand and foot. Thank You for reading-Ayesha
Lynn
12 Aug 2009, 14:58
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I am 44 and was diagnosed with RA 2+ years ago. Started out with Plaquenil 200 mg twice a day, along with 5 mg Prednisone. Was still in alot of pain, they added methotrexate 10mg once a week. I also take tramadol for pain management (which is addictive, no matter what docs say!) and it just seems to me that doctors just really don't know what does and what doesn't work. When they put me on the methotrexate they weaned me off the prendnisone, then when all the pain and fatigue came back, they put me back on the prednisone. It's like we're a bunch of guinea pigs. Three times they have tried to wean me off the prednisone and everytime they tell me to go back onto it, even though out of their same mouth I hear "prednisone just masks the symptoms" it doesn't actually help with controlling the RA. The last doctor visit I complained because I am exhausted, dizzy, head just constantly swimming, migraine like headaches and sick to my stomach all the time. She told me it wasn't her problem and that I needed to see my general practitioner. My GP had no clue what was wrong with me. Ran some blood tests, couldn't come up with any real "reason" as to why I wasn't feeling well. So I took matters into my own hands, looked up side effects, cut out the pills one at a time that I thought I could do without and tramadol was one of them that I started with. The symptoms went away for a little while, but then came back (course there's also the addiction factor of the drug you can't just stop taking it, you get all wired up and then you can't sleep) but then I stopped taking the plaquinel and I haven't felt this good in months....just incredible. I haven't told the doctor yet, I realize that the plaquinel is effective in the treatment of RA and may just take one 200mg at night so I don't have to deal with the side effects when I'm at work. But why don't they take us seriously? Why can't you find a doctor to take a real interest in your health and stop reading us the same thing they tell every patient? Plaquinel & methotrexate have a "synergistic" effect. Prednisone masks the symptoms it doesn't cure the disease. C'mon, we just want some relief so we can live a somewhat normal life. Help us, but help us as individuals not like cattle in a pen. The same thing doesn't work for every single one of this, if you read these blogs you can see that quite clearly.
Lettie Butler
04 Aug 2009, 19:18
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I have been diagnosed with degenetive ostoarthritis. I was started out with meloxican taking the smaller dosage. I have tried to find other over the counter NSAID for the pain and stiffness. I've tried Tylenoid for Arthritis, advil, motrin,you name it I have tried it. I have been using cherry juice, blue berries and strawberries combined for better stregnth..about 4 oz of the juice or you can combine the fresh fruit also. I hope that this info help someone out. I pray that they come up with a miracle drug that will help us with this dreadful disease.
Angel
16 Jul 2009, 11:32
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These stories are all to familiar to us all!
I am 36yrs old dx 3 yrs ago. I have tried methotrexate and I also experienced hair loss,dental problems, and swollen abdomen. Then planquenil with no results. My last attempt was Arava. I had horrible side effects broke out in a rash all over. The itching was so painful. The sores became scabs and would bleed. Horrible. Prednisone of course has been giving on/off although I try to limit that intake due to the horrible side-effects and damage it can cause the body. I also try to take fish oils, and a multi-vit daily. I dont know the answers. Trial & error I suppose. My next step is injections which scares the hell out me! Ive put if off as long as possible. I recently started taking Tylenol 3 which has helped some with my pain. I know many of us have a hard time taking the pain-meds for fear of addiction...but it sure is nice to have some pain relief. We have a chronic illness that has no cure. It would be nice if occasionally we could have some relief without fearing potential side-effects. Best of luck to you all.
Debbie
23 Jun 2009, 15:57
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Has anyone who is having trouble with methotrexate asked their doctor about switching to sulfazine? I opted for sulfazine when my doctor told me I would essentially have to give up drinking any alcohol if I went on methotrexate. I asked her for the next best option, and it was sulfazine. I have had no stomach or hair loss problems. I am also on the biologic Remicade, which is given by infusion every 8 weeks. The nurses tell me it is well tolerated by most people.
Virginia
19 Jun 2009, 00:00
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In answer to Jessica (May 14, 2009)
I have RA and Sjogrens Syndrome and my Rheumatologist put me on Plaquenil 200 mg. twice a day. I started it about 8 months ago and recently noticed slight hair loss. The Dr. said he does not think this is due to the Plaquenil, however, I am not certain about that as I have never had hair loss prior to taking this medication. Dr. told me to reduce Plaquenil to once a day until I return for next app't. which is in two weeks. He said we will discuss it at that time. Other than this, I have had no other symptoms. If you read the insert that comes with medication, it says hair loss is one of the possibilities, however, as I said my Dr. said he has never seen it in patients before.
Victoria
17 Jun 2009, 16:54
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I was also on methotrexate for years and experienced some of the same side effects that I have been reading here. Right now I am on Arava and at first had some pretty bad side effects, but found some supplements/vitamins that help!

For the stomach upset, I always take my medication with food... preferably a meal. I also take Protonix with it and that has significantly helped with the nausea. I had some irregularity as well (I am also a vegetarian so this may be due to my diet), so I take a probiotic pill daily, and an iron pill for fiber every 2 days. I also try to eat yogurt daily. For the mouth ulcers, I take folic acid everyday. If I miss one of these, I definitely notice because I will have a mouth ulcer the next day! For the hair loss/thinning, I take one Biotin daily. This pill also contains calcium. For my liver I take Milk Thistle. I also take Fish Oil which has greatly improved the condition of my skin and hair.

I hope this helps anyone who experienced side effects from medications. I would strongly suggest talking to your doctor before taking any supplements, as they may interact with some of the medications you are on. There is also a wonderful section of the Arthritis Today website that gives and overview of each supplements. I hope you all find something that works for your pain.
Jennifer
11 Jun 2009, 13:41
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I have had RA since 1995. Dx at 29. For years I only took an NSAID and plaquenil. I have lost many joints because I was not agressive enough with my medication. This past 6 months I have tried MTX lost alot of hair and had horrible stomach pain and mouth sores. I had to stop it after 1.5 months. Next came ARAVA it was okay but didn't work as well as MTX. I had my first Humira injection 15 days ago. I felt great until the 12th day after the shot. I started ithching all over and noticed a huge 2 by 3 inch welt at the injection site. I also had a blotchy rash all over my torso and arms and it looks like I have a lupus like rash on my face. My doctor prescribed a prednisone pack for 6 days and I have been taking benadryl at night. 4 days later my rash and redness are not decreasing. I will not be able to take the Humira again, I felt so much better the first 12 days and then the reaction. Has anyone had a delayed reaction to Humira, like the one I had?
Patty
11 Jun 2009, 10:48
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I have had five Orencia infusions with the last one being the worse. I was ill for five days with nausea,body aches, bad head ache,chills, and could not get out of bed. The issue is that the Orencia has finally started to work and my RA of 19 years is better. Anyone else have these severe reaction to Orencia infusion?
kay
04 Jun 2009, 12:17
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I've been on orencia treatment for a few months I hav'nt seen much improvement has anyone experienced any side effects from this drug? I was really apprehensive about starting this drug because of the possible side-effects
N.Sambra
03 Jun 2009, 13:15
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Good afternoon,

I read all of those emails that people send, but my question is: who answers their questions? I see many people suffering with their medicines and nobody in this Arthritis Foundation answers. What is your purpose? Could you please answer to those emails?

Thank you,
NS
Christa
01 Jun 2009, 19:58
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Hi I been diagnosis with RA and have imflammation in the blood. The Rheumotologist put me on Prednisone and I had upset stomach and was feeling hot and flush. I didn't know if it was the medication or my blood pressure. The blood pressure was fine. The Dr stop that abruptly and started me on Methotrexate. I heard so many bad things about this medication. I've been taking it for over a month now with folic acid and so far it's been working. I heard the medication affect the immune system, liver and can get sore in your mouth. I asked the Rheumotologist about giveing me shot of the Methotrexate and he said only if I have a upset stomach. I would like to get more information about the medication. Of course I have thin hair so I haven't notice loose hair coming out. I hope this doesn't happen to me. What can I take so I don't lose my hair from this medication?
Shelagh
30 May 2009, 17:43
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I have been diagnosed with RA for 4 years. Have positive skin test so can't take biologicals. Have been on Methotrexate, this appears to not work, Dr has prescribed Arava-- I am afraid of this due to many major sideeffects, anyone out there on Arava ? does it help ? Maybe I should give methotrexate another chance, apparently I read that it needs folic acid to work, I didn't take this at times. Hurt quite a bit.
Let me here from you ??
Lois Ciaburri
27 May 2009, 17:17
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Has anyone have any experience with more than one treatment of rituxan and how did itgo any side effects thanks Lois
Danielle
24 May 2009, 21:36
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I am 36 and have had RA for 2yrs now. I have been on quite a few medications. Currently 10mg of prednisone, methotrexate, folic acid, hydroxycloroquine. I have been on others before that didn't work & was taken off of them. I was on Enbrel for about 6mo & that worked great until I got a horrible rash on my arms & neck. Doctor found out it was a reaction they call Lupus Like Syndrome. I stopped that & the rash went away within a couple of weeks. Now I am going to start with the Orencia, I sure hope this works! I have a very physical job that requires a lot of lifting, bending, using my hands & since this whole RA thing started, my job has gotten increasingly harder. I am now hoping that the Orencia will help!
Patti T
19 May 2009, 12:40
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I was diagnosed approx. 3yrs ago. I was put on methotrexate, on/off plaquenil(200mg twice aday---stomach upset),prednisone on/off/on (messing with periods),folic acid. because I was still having outbreaks, we tried humira (little affect over aperiod of 6 mnths)still having bouts and insurance problems, we started enbrel (no time to see if it worked)this caused me avery serious skin rash, that nobody will itmit to that it is the enbrel. hospital did blood wk(dr. doesnt agree)negative to all tests. MD dr.increased predisone for 12 days and z-pack. with 5doses of enbrel, I got a rash nobody agrees is the caused, and it won't go away. Dr. says see a dermatogist!!!!!!!! I up and down with fingers and feet hurting, and the rest of the body just hurting once in awhile. whats wrong is the dr's can't agree with eachother, just who is better!!!!!!!!
Patti T
19 May 2009, 12:39
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I was diagnosed approx. 3yrs ago. I was put on methotrexate, on/off plaquenil(200mg twice aday---stomach upset),prednisone on/off/on (messing with periods),folic acid. because I was still having outbreaks, we tried humira (little affect over aperiod of 6 mnths)still having bouts and insurance problems, we started enbrel (no time to see if it worked)this caused me avery serious skin rash, that nobody will itmit to that it is the enbrel. hospital did blood wk(dr. doesnt agree)negative to all tests. MD dr.increased predisone for 12 days and z-pack. with 5doses of enbrel, I got a rash nobody agrees is the caused, and it won't go away. Dr. says see a dermatogist!!!!!!!! I up and down with fingers and feet hurting, and the rest of the body just hurting once in awhile. whats wrong is the dr's can't agree with eachother, just who is better!!!!!!!!
Joanna Lee
19 May 2009, 10:50
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I'm 49 and I've had RA for 4 and a half years. I'm currently on Arava, Plaquenil, Sulfasalazine and Mobicox. I also take a lot of extra strength ibuprofen.

I've stopped several drugs because I felt the side effects were worse than the RA. I stopped Methotrexate (in pill form) because it made me nauseous for 3 days and that was just too long in my opinion. I stopped Celebrex because it gave me angina, while I'd never had heart problems before. I stopped Enbrel because it didn't work at all. I stopped Humira because it gave me pericarditis and I stopped Orencia because it gave me extreme 24/7 muscle spasms in my upper back.

Orencia was the last drug I was on that I stopped and I told my rheumy that I didn't want to go on any more biologics because I didn't think it was worth it.

Right now, I'm doing mainly okay with just a little bit of stiffness/swelling in my hands in the morning and some knee pain that is manageable.

The only drug that I wonder about trying again is methotrexate because I've heard good things about getting it injected or taking in liquid form as opposed to the pills. Any info about this would be extremely helpful.
Jim
15 May 2009, 07:54
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My son was diagnossed with JRA about two years ago. He will probably need to be on MTX eventually, but after hearing all of these side effects I am wondering if this is the best option. I believe that we have it under control, but I am afraid of what kind of future my boy will have with this disease.
Jessica
14 May 2009, 20:32
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I am 31 years old and was diagnosed with RA about 1 year ago. I have not had a lot of problems. I have seen a rheumatologist and she recommended that I take Plaquenil 200mg twice per day. She said that she wants me to start taking it to try to prevent long term damage. I have not started taking it because I am concerned about the side effects. Has anyone experienced side effects from this medicine.
SUSAN L. BUTLER
14 May 2009, 15:30
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When I was first diaagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and possible Fibromyalgia I was not concerned. I had been having trouble with the joints in my hands which was first diagnosed as possible Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Nerve testing ruled this out and bloodwork determined the real cause. I immediately was refered to a Rheumatologist. My first drug was Voltaren. When I first starting taking it I had enough pain to want to die, but iin a couple of weeks, I couldn't believe the changes in pain and function, it was considered a wonder drug to me. Then as my conditions worsened, Plaquenil was also given. Again, I was virtually pain free - at least I could handle this level of pain. Then prednisone was added with not a lot of good results. Then Methotrexate was added, again, not much change. The the Voltaren was out and I began on Arava with the Metho and Pred. After several months I lost so much hair, I felt I would be bald, I also started loosing teeth. I had constant watery stool and when my liver enzymes got bad I was taken off Arava, put on Humira, Metho and Pred. Humira didn't help. Then put on Enbtrl with the Metho and Pred which seems to help some more than anything previously taken. Still loosing hair but dental problems have tempered a bit. X-rays showed no halt in joint damage. My toes, fingers, wrists, and knees are horribly painful, especially in the morning. Although slow, the crippling and deformity of joint bones slowly progresses. Problems again with electrolites, sed rate, anemia. Got a skin infection and was first taken off the Pred - that was supposed to stop the severe bruising I was experiencing - didn't. White cell count and red blood cell count coupled with the skin infection verified immune system too low to fight off infection. All meds were stopped and antibiotics helped the skin infection. Now back on Metho and Enbrel and folic acid and was told we would discuss other options at my next visit. My hair has not even attempted to grow back no matter what I am on and my hair used to be great - fine and whispy but still great. It is an uphill battle and I am often too tired to try to climb up again, but I just keep on working full time and dealing with the horrible pain. I would give about anything for pain medication, but so far have not taken any. Since my children are all gone, my dogs help keep me in line. I am hoping for some breakthrough before I die that will keep me at the position I am in at the present time without having to worry about more deformities - can't buy just any shoes due to toe deformities, etc. GFrankly, I would do or take just about anything that would give me my hair back (and my teeth, which would eliminate the need for the partial and bridge. Just keeping on!! God bless all researchers - they will eventually find a cure. I am 61 years old but hope to see it in my lifetime. By the way, my father had RA and I have one male twin and one daughter who are also blessed with RA.
Paula
14 May 2009, 13:15
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I have had Ulcerative Colitis for over 12 years and am on Imuran an immuno-suppressant along with Asacol and many other meds for that...also have Rheumatoid Arthritis for the last 6 years have tried Methotrexate that did not work for me at all have been trying combo of Humira injection and Plaquenil with Prednisone when needed Cortisone injections as needed and PRN pain meds, muscle relaxers...lots of meds for nerve damage they just keep adding more and more and more and the side effects keep gettting worse and worse and I am in constant pain. I am 35 years old trying to continue to work full-time maintain a house-hold and not have my boy-friend/family have to dress or shower me in the mornings. I have decided to try Rituxan and Methotrexate at this point and have started to make some major life changes to my diet and exercise (which is almost impossible to even walk but i continue to push myself) anyone have any thoughts on this.
feenz
13 May 2009, 22:23
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my 2 yr old who has just started on methotraxate is already complaining of stomach pain, she is on neoproxin as well so that might be the culprit too. after reading all stories of hair loss, i m afraid for her, she has loveliest curly hair falling to her shoulders. should i start hair n skin vitamins right away so she doesnt suffer from another loss?
i wonder if these symptoms are just as aggressive in chiidren as in adults?
Bev
06 May 2009, 12:21
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In the 2 yrs I've had RA, methotexate caused debilitaing stom pains, fatigue, headach & brown spots all over my neck, Rituxin didn't work, Arava caused many side effects & had to be stopped (although it totally desensatized my teeth!),Orencia, which I'm on but I don't think it's working, Just started Plaquenil, which is making my teeth very sensative again. Prednisone has been the best drug yet,no side effects except weight gain, which is making me crazy. Let's hope they come out with a drug that works for all without any side effects!
pat landy
05 May 2009, 18:25
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I have been taking methotrexate for 6 months and have just started Humira injections once every 2 weeks. My lips are swollen, dry and burn or tingle on occasion. Does anyone else have a similar experience?
Stacy
05 May 2009, 10:49
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I was diagnosed with RA about 6 months ago. I have been on MTX for about 2.5 months (also on Plaquenil, Pantoloc, Prednasone, folic acid and was just taken off of Dicofenac because I'm getting an ulcer). I am having a terrible time with fatigue and nausea almost all of the time. My hair has thinned and my teeth are super sensitive. Can anyone tell me if there's something I can do to alleviate the fatigue?
jeanne
05 May 2009, 09:29
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i am on a regimen of daily plaquenil, folic acid, relafen weekly MTX, and Humira twice each month. My straight hair has become sort of curly. Annoying but a minor side effect. What I have noticed is an increase in dental problems. Has anyone else experienced this?
Barbara
22 Apr 2009, 02:49
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I am taking or using 12 different prescriptions for different problems. My problem is the cost of all these medicines.

When is the cost of medicine going to come down? Advertising is contributing to the cost, yet Arthritis Today carries advertising for some of these drugs. So do many other magazines and there are many ads on TV. The costs have gone up since advertising was started. Let's get some sense about what we are doing.
Kelley
21 Apr 2009, 15:48
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I have been on MTX for about 6 months (also on Arava, Mobic, folic acid, Plaquenil). I am having a terrible time with fatigue for 2 days after taking. My hair has thinned & I usually have nausea starting about 2 days after I take the MTX. By the time I start to feel better, it is time to take the MTX again. My symptom have improved but not as much as I hoped.
Sandy D.
21 Apr 2009, 14:17
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Diagnosed 7 years ago with R.A.
I started with methotrexate and sulfasalazin both in pill form. After about 5 years of that I had extremely bad stomach upset and decided to quit taking all pills for abor 3 months. Of corse all my symptoms returned but then discoverd methotrexate in liquid form and have had absolutly no stomach pain. I recomend all first timers of mexotrexate to take the liquid form, it will save a lot of you from stomach problems. Although now it seems as though my body is not respnding to it as well.I had a trial shot of Humira yesterday and I feel alot better.I'll have to wait and see how my body responds. Sadly there is no magic pill,and for some it's just trial and error. No matter what medication you and your Dr. decide, do the reserch, eat well and get plenty of rest, also listen to your body.
Charlotte
21 Apr 2009, 12:01
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I have fibromyalia and osteoarthritis. I also have a knee that is bone on bone,which was given a cortisone shot in my knee, about 2 weeks ago. Now I am in pain all over, and I'm wondering if the cortisone shot could be the caused this. What are the side effects of cortison? Thank you for your help.
Georgia
21 Apr 2009, 10:18
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I am 46 yrs. old and have RA. I have tried arava, enbrel & orencia all while taking 20 mg of methotrexate. Nothing seemed to work and I also had severe allergic reactions to the enbrel. I did not have mouth sores with foilc acid but have had CONSTANT heart burn and acid reflux. I am now on Humira with the methotresxate and LOVE it. Except for a day or two before my shot I am pain free. I also had beautiful thick curly hair until I started the methotrexate but that is gone now. My hair is straight and thinned but with the help of a really good moisture infused shampoo I am getting some curl back.
Rhoda
21 Apr 2009, 09:16
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My orthopedist recommended two Aleve in the morning and 2 at night (after meals). It has helped enormously--no strong pain meds since on this.....however, I have noticed on the Aleve website that it should not be taken with asthma......I have asthma. I would love information/opinions on this NSAID. Giving it up might mean going back to Vicodin when I take my daily 2 1/2 mile walk....help!!
CHERRY
21 Apr 2009, 08:54
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YES NANCY HAIR LOSS IS A SIDE EFFECT OF THE METHOXETRATE I HAD VERY THIN HAIR AS IT WAS AND KINDA CURLY AND I LOST THE CURL EVERY WHERE EXPECT THE BACK..BUT I TOOK SUPPLEMENTS OF HAIR,SKIN AND NAIL FROM WALMART AND IT SEEMED TO HELP TREMENDOUSLY I AM NOW OFF ALL THEM MEDS AND MY HAIR HAS REALLY CAME BUT..I TRIED TO INCORPORATE ALOT OF HERBS AND THINGS INTO MY DIET ONE IMPORTANT THING I FOUND OUT NEVER AND I MEAN EVER TAKE ANYTHING WITHOUT CHECKING WITH YOUR DOCTOR HERBS AND NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS SOUNDS GOOD BUT IT CAN EFFECT WAY YOUR MEDS WORK OR EVER HAVE A BAD SIDE EFFECT..MY DR DID TELL ME FISH OIL AND FLAX SEED WITH LIGNANS IS OK SO I BEEN TAKING THE COMBO OF THEM SEVERAL MONTHS AND I DO SEE SOME EASE OF PAIN AND INFLAMATION
endah raharjo
19 Apr 2009, 06:07
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I live in Indonesia and am 47. I am fairly healthy, slim, doing exercise and yoga on a regular basis. I was just diagnosed with early stage of OA. My doctor prescribed glucosamine but I think the side effects bothered me. I took the medicine every night just before going to bed and in the following morning as I woke up I had headache and nausea. I am seriously worried about getting some new illness because of the side effects, so I decided to just stop taking it.
Nan in Waco
13 Apr 2009, 08:44
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This is for someone about to take methotrexate for the first time. I am 46 years old and in fairly good health, other than RA and fibromyalgia. I take 2 grams of folic acid per day to ameliorate the side effects of the 15 miligrams of methotrexate I take one day a week. (Make sure you are taking folic acid as part of your methotrexate regimen!) The methotrexate makes me feel tired and eventually I get sleepy enough to take a nap. In pill form, it hurt my stomach, so now I inject it. (Ibuprofen and I are best buds, so you can imagine the beating my stomach lining was getting.) After I take methotrexate, I feel a little out of sorts - I don't want to go so far as to call it nausea, because it's not quite that bad. As long as I swill water all day and keep something in my stomach, I'm ok. I've had no hair loss or any other side effects. I've learned that the best way to deal with this is to drink tons of water and other clear liquids and to eat. Make sure you have foods on hand that always sound good to you. Even if it's ice cream or chocolate chip cookies, it's better to eat a little junk than to let your stomach get empty. Again, in my experience, eating and drinking are key: You want this drug moving through your system; you do NOT want it laying around in your liver and kidneys! I know the folic acid must help me keep these side effect so manageable. Good luck!
sandy
09 Apr 2009, 23:42
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I've been on Methotrexate for 3 years and it has helped me so much!!! I was in a wheelchair, now I'm walking somewhat. I did experience a lot of hair loss and started to take vitamins, good ones and have had much better luck. I am now experiencing more pain and I don't want to take more, but the success I've had is so wonderful, I guess I will. (Not a easy decision) I have a lot of stomach problems also.
Pamela
07 Apr 2009, 14:50
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Diagnosed as a teenager with RA, my parents denied the truth of my illness so now at age 63, I have been receiving treatment with Methotrexate for 1 years. Not helping much. Tried a biologic drug and nearly died of my allergic reaction. I exercise in warm water at least 6 hours per week and do volunteer work that I enjoy. I tell that I am loosing a little more function and mobility each month and I'm concerned about my short term future.
Hattie Boyd
07 Apr 2009, 11:12
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I have severe RA and hacetried Humura,Enbrel, methotrexate, over a period of ten years. Rash with with Enbrel took me off that. It had began to work.
I just had my second treatment of Rituxan. So far, so good.
CHERRY
07 Apr 2009, 10:08
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I too have alot of what you all mentioned I have tried prednisone on several occasions upsets my Dr but I have wieghed the pro's and cons and i weaned myself off of it i feel better in alot of ways..I too was on methoxetrate and had lots of hair loss try hair and skin vitamins it seems to help i take alot of pride in my hair but now i am off of it too I had a liver test come up bad, the folic acid does help with the mouth ulcers. We are looking at a new drug called Rituxan its a iv drug that super expensive but Dr says we need to approach my RA from different angle..But my stomach even though i am off all meds and have been all of a sudden is super upset.
Pam
07 Apr 2009, 09:48
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Yes, I've also had lots of hair loss and stomach pains and I've been on methotrexate now for 6 mos. My hair brush is full of hair each morning and I have bad stomach pains almost everyday. I've also have pains in my right side which I don't know if it's the meds are not. The medication did help me with the pains and stiffness though. I'm weighing if it's worth it or not.
Sarah Toombs
06 Apr 2009, 23:11
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I take Celebrex and tylenol arthritis, it helps a little, specially the Celebrex, the inflamation is not as bad when I take it. I am also taking magnesium, some days I feel better and other very bad, I guess we have to learn to live with the pain, A doctor told
that a medicine was about to come to the market and according to him it helps arthritis 90%, I am keeping my fingers crossed, and hope it does come to the market soon, if someone know about this let us know.

Sarah
JimLiv
30 Mar 2009, 23:12
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After taking 'methotrexate' for almost 5 years, I had to have a concerous kidney removed. The side effects listed are kidney problems & cancer. And after stopping methotrexate, I really do feel much better.

While taking methotrexate my doctor prescribed 1mg of Folic Acid to prevent mouth sores.
Nancy
30 Mar 2009, 18:57
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I take methotrexate. I am experiencing hair loss that is becoming significant. Is this a side effect of the drug?
Jan
25 Mar 2009, 20:22
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I am on remicade. I have been taking treatment for over a year. I have recently been having problems with extremely itchy skin. Could this be a reaction?

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