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  • About Arthritis
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    woman holding her wristWhat Is Arthritis?

    Arthritis is not one disease. Learn about the different types of arthritis, how they differ and why it’s important.

    microbesInflammation and the Immune System

    Body-wide inflammation is at the root of most chronic diseases — and you may have more control over it than you think.

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    A new arthritis diagnosis can be overwhelming. These tips can help.

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    More of these biologic medications will soon be available. Learn what they are, whether you should consider them and what to ask your doctor.

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    Woman with upset stomachMicrobiome, Gut Health & Arthritis

    Microbiome, microbes, microorganisms – these terms may be confusing, but the types of bacteria living in and on our bodies can impact arthritis. Learn what helps or harms the microbiome and the health of your gut and discover dietary changes that can make a difference. This episode was originally released on January 19, 2021.

    woman consoling anotherArthritis and Mental Health

    Learn about the connection between arthritis, depression and anxiety and how these conditions can make your arthritis worse.

    Woman ExercisingYour Exercise Solution (YES)

    Movement is the best medicine, even when your joints hurt. Your Exercise Solution (YES) is a resource to help you create a physical activity routine with modifications developed and approved by physical therapists.

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    Transforming Clinical Interactions

    The Live Yes! Arthritis community connects patients with others online and in-person for support and education, and encourages patients to play an active role in their health care.

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    The Arthritis Foundation recently launched an initiative to build stronger relationships and increase recognition of our most engaged practices. 

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    The Osteoarthritis Clinical Studies Forum Series features OA thought leaders from across the globe discussing the future of how the disease can be treated to improve patient outcomes.

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    The Arthritis Foundation is mobilizing patients and their families to engage in studies comparing the effectiveness of treatments for juvenile arthritis and funding research for more options.

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    Take action today - use the resources here to learn who your elected officials are, what opportunities we have to advocate from the comfort of your own home, federal and state legislation, and more!

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    You may have arthritis, but it doesn't have you. The Arthritis Foundation’s one-of-a-kind podcast. Hosted by patients, for patients.

    Walk to cure arthritisWalk To Cure Arthritis

    Join the movement and make an impact by honoring those who rock your world at the Arthritis Foundation’s signature walk event, Walk to Cure Arthritis. Register as an individual or form a team and Rock the Walk in your community!

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Understanding Methotrexate 

Methotrexate is one of the most commonly prescribed arthritis medicines. Learn what to expect if you take it. 

If you are having trouble accessing your methotrexate, contant our Helpline, 1-800-283-7800.

What is Methotrexate?

Methotrexate is one of the mainstays of treatment for inflammatory forms of arthritis. It not only reduces pain and swelling, but it can actually slow joint damage and disease progression over time. That’s why methotrexate is known as a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). Many rheumatologists use methotrexate as first-line therapy for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). 

Methotrexate isn’t new – it’s been part of RA treatment for more than three decades. Researchers first developed this drug in the 1940s as a cancer treatment. Then in 1985, scientists discovered that it relieved pain, swelling and other symptoms in people with RA. Three years later, methotrexate won FDA approval for treating RA, and it soon became the treatment of choice for people with this condition and other forms of inflammatory arthritis as well. 

Methotrexate Dosing 

About 90% of RA patients use methotrexate at some point. Typically you will start with a weekly dose of 7.5 to 10 mg taken by mouth – equal to three or four pills. If that doesn’t help with symptoms, the doctor may raise your dosage to 20 to 25 mg per week, or as high a dose as you can tolerate. 

When pills alone won’t calm your symptoms, your doctor might give you subcutaneous methotrexate – a shot given under the skin. Taking the drug this way puts more of it into your system without increasing side effects. You can give the methotrexate shot to yourself using an auto-injector. 

Pairing Methotrexate with Other Drugs 

Methotrexate is effective, but not everyone who takes it gains adequate relief from joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness and other symptoms. Fortunately for people who need more relief, combining methotrexate with other medications will usually do the job. Most often, methotrexate is combined with other DMARDs, such as leflunomide (Arava), cyclosporine (Neoral), sulfasalazine (Azulfadine) and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil). 

Doctors may try pairing methotrexate with biologic drugs in people who don’t respond well to DMARD combinations. These drugs inhibit part of the overactive immune system response that contributes to many types of inflammatory arthritis. The most common biologic combination is with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors such as etanercept (Enbrel), adalimumab (Humira), infliximab (Remicade) or certolizumab pegol (Cimzia). Research also shows that methotrexate combines effectively with other biologics, such as abatacept (Orencia), rituximab (Rituxan) and tocilizumab (Actemra). 

Safety and Side Effects of Methotrexate 

Methotrexate is widely regarded as one of the safest of all arthritis drugs, though it carries some potential downsides. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting are its most frequent side effects. Other possible side effects include hair loss, mouth sores, shortness of breath, headaches, fatigue, drowsiness and dizziness. Taking folic acid daily can help offset most side effects.  

Sometimes the drug will affect liver function tests, especially when it’s taken in higher doses. Your doctor will monitor you for liver issues.  

Certain people, notably women who are or may become pregnant, should not take methotrexate.  

Talk to your doctor and learn more about managing the side effects associated with methotrexate.

Medications
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Methotrexate: Managing Side Effects

Medication

Methotrexate: Managing Side Effects
Understand side effects methotrexate and how to minimize your risks.
Read More
Methotrexate

Medication

Methotrexate
Drug Class: DMARDs Brand Names: Otrexup, Rasuvo, Rheumatrex, Trexall, Xatmep
Read More
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The Arthritis Foundation is focused on finding a cure and championing the fight against arthritis with life-changing information, advocacy, science and community. We can only achieve these goals with your help. Strong, outspoken and engaged volunteers will help us conquer arthritis. By getting involved, you become a leader in our organization and help make a difference in the lives of millions. Join us and become a Champion of Yes.

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Meet Our Partners

As a partner, you will help the Arthritis Foundation provide life-changing resources, science, advocacy and community connections for people with arthritis, the nations leading cause of disability. Join us today and help lead the way as a Champion of Yes.

Trailblazer

Our Trailblazers are committed partners ready to lead the way, take action and fight for everyday victories. They contribute $2,000,000 to $2,749,000

Visionary

Our Visionary partners help us plan for a future that includes a cure for arthritis. These inspired and inventive champions have contributed $1,500,00 to $1,999,999.

Pioneer

Our Pioneers are always ready to explore and find new weapons in the fight against arthritis. They contribute $1,000,000 to $1,499,999.

Pacesetter

Our Pacesetters ensure that we can chart the course for a cure for those who live with arthritis. They contribute $500,000 to $999,000.

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Our Signature partners make their mark by helping us identify new and meaningful resources for people with arthritis. They contribute $250,000 to $499,999.

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Our Supporting partners are active champions who provide encouragement and assistance to the arthritis community. They contribute $100,000 to $249,999.

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