How can I reduce the side-effects of methotrexate?

Taking folic acid on the non-methotrexate days will help to minimise the side-effects. Another way of reducing side-effects is to cut down the dose of methotrexate – you’re only taking 10 mg, which is a relatively small dose, but even a reduction to 7.5 mg may help.

What vitamin can reduce the toxicity of methotrexate?

Both folic acid (FA) and folinic acid (FLN) supplements have been shown to reduce the toxicity of MTX when used in RA therapy.

How do you stay healthy while taking methotrexate?

Wash your hands often. Take good care of your mouth to help prevent mouth sores. Use a soft toothbrush and a mouthwash. Avoid drinking alcohol or keep alcohol intake to a minimum while taking methotrexate.

Do methotrexate side-effects get better?

Many patients on methotrexate have few or no side-effects. Among those who do have problems, most side-effects resolve by lowering the dose or, if needed, discontinuation of the drug. But your dose should never be lowered – nor discontinued – without the guidance of your physician.

What foods should I avoid while taking methotrexate?

As part of your Methotrexate therapy, you must avoid foods that are rich in folic acid because folic acid may decrease the effectiveness of the therapy. These guidelines will help you avoid folic acid rich foods until your doctor advises that you may resume eating them.

Do methotrexate side effects get worse over time?

You may feel more nausea and fatigue immediately after taking methotrexate, but it is important for patients to know that these symptoms typically subside over time and won’t necessarily last all week long.

What supplements Cannot be taken with methotrexate?

Folic acid-containing supplements may interfere with methotrexate therapy in people with cancer. Methotrexate therapy can lead to folic acid deficiency. People using methotrexate for cancer treatment should ask their prescribing doctor before using any folic acid-containing supplements.

Should I drink lots of water with methotrexate?

Methotrexate may cause kidney damage. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids during your treatment with methotrexate, especially if you exercise or are physically active. Call your doctor if you think you might be dehydrated. You may become dehydrated if you sweat excessively or if you vomit, have diarrhea or have a fever.

Does coffee affect methotrexate?

Dietary caffeine intake does not affect methotrexate efficacy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Can I drink coffee while on methotrexate?

The significant relief with a schedule of coffee intake synchronized with MTX has urged the recommendation that adult patients with RA and MTX intolerance should drink “a few cups more coffee” on the day of MTX administration [4].