Injecting Methotrexate Part 2

Injecting Methotrexate Part two

A rheumatologist is a board-certified internist or pediatrician who is qualified by additional training and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones.

As I stated in a previous post, I was diagnose with RA in 2008. My rheumatologist prescribed Methotrexate to me in May of 2005. She was sure that the Methotrexate would work and at the same time, it would get me off steroids. Before I took the Methotrexate, I got on my computer at home to research it. I was scared of the possible side effects, especially to the liver. However, I felt I needed to give the medicine a try because I was miserable!
I didn't note in my medical journal when I stopped taking the Methotrexate. However,  in February of 2006, I wrote that my rheumatologist was putting me back on Methotrexate. Only this time she prescribed 8 pills a week for me to take. Basically, that's how it was with me and the methotrexate. I would stop taking it and my rheumatologist would put me back on. Overall in my case, I didn't think the possible side effects with no big change in my condition warranted me taking the methotrexate. I know I am not a doctor, but that's how I felt.
So on January 17, 2014, when my rheumy decided to prescribed methotrexate to me again, I was skeptical, but agreed to give the medication another try. What did I have to lose, I felt there was a possibility the methotrexate would work. At least work well enough where I could get off the steroids.
Fast forward to the latter part of 2014, with a different rheumatologist at the same practice, who was like the previous rheumatologist uncompromising about my need to get off prednisone. Therefore, a couple of appointments later (April 2015), the decision for me to begin injecting methotrexate was made. Even though I was the one who initially brought the topic of injecting methotrexate to the table, I was still very reluctant. Nevertheless, I needed to stay focus, because the issue at hand was getting off the prednisone.


Prednisone is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, blood disorders, breathing problems, severe allergies, skin diseases, cancer, eye problems, and immune system disorders.
Prednisone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It decreases your immune system's response to various diseases to reduce symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions.
Side effects from Prednisone: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, heartburn, trouble sleeping, increased sweating, or acne may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. (WEBMD)