Methotrexate and migrane

[Legion]

I started on Methotrexate 6 weeks ago, in my 5th week I started to get migranes and times when I feel like my head is in a vice. I usually take painkillers for PA so I am quite shocked that I can still get this kind of pain , is this normal, has anyone else had experience of this kind of thing?

[lee]

you should have been well informed about MTX before taking this. One of the common side effects is nausea and headaches etc. I think fumuric acid is used to help reduce some signs. But dont quote me on that.Best to go back to your gp and ask them.

[SJ]

I have never suffered from headaches with MTX, though once in a blue moon I do feel a bit sicky. I am sure headaches are probably one of the side effects with it...there are plenty as you can imagine. However, tiredness is deffo one of them and many people suffer with this and it might set off a headache if you are prone to them.

Are you taking Folic acid? This is what derms use to combat the side effects of MTX. Take one 5mg tablet every day except the day you take your MTX. You will need a scrip for it though, as you cannot buy this over the counter from a chemist in such a large tablet dosage.

The only other advice I can give is eat something before you take the tablet/s and perhaps take it before you go to bed...this helps as you are sleeping through the initial side effects (works for me, though I find it difficult to wake up in the morning).

BTW, make sure the painkillers you take do not contain aspirin or ibuprofen...only paracetamol to protect your liver. These two drugs are contra-indicated whilst taking MTX!

SJ

[lee]

thanks sj i knew it was one of the acids lol. folic thats it. i remeber now fumric acid is a p treatment on its own.

[Bigfoot]

I took folic acid along side MTX too and although I did not suffer with headaches I did get "itchyskin" after 13wks and had to come of MTX just at the time I was starting to feel some benefit for my PA.

[Legion]

Yes, I take folic Acid once a week, but have just started to feel sick this week. I am lethargic and have to fight tiredness in an afternoon just to keep awake.
The painkillers I have are Ibuprofen for PA, so I will ask my doc about that. My P stings constantly and although cream eases the stinging after a few mins, once it dries out it stings again. Sort if a vicious circle.......what!!!!

[SJ]

The Folic Acid should be taken every day except the day you take your MTX...ie 6 times a week.

It is important that your doc reviews your painkillers...deffo shouldn't be taking ibuprofen with MTX as this puts too much strees on the liver...

Tiredness is a terrible side effect. I too can remember fighting to keep my eyes open in the afternoons for the day or two after taking it. I can really empathise on that one...though it really isn't too bad after a few years being on it. Perhaps you get used to it and you will too?

Make sure you write down your side effects for your next MTX review so that you can be checked out properly...

SJ