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Real members of MyPsoriasisTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I am newly diagnosed with PsA. My Dr put me on Methotrexate... but with all the side effects and warnings, I'm scared 🥺 any advice

A MyPsoriasisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Las Cruces, NM
October 14
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Reactions
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

I had it added to Taltz as after a few years it was waning in effectiveness. I lost half my volume of hair! And told my doctor take me off it! Everyone is different in how they react but there are many other solutions out there. Keep trying you will find one that works for you. Good luck!

October 18
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

I was nervous about starting methotrexate & biologic meds years ago. I only take methotrexate once weekly, not spread out every 12 hours as suggested above. I am grateful those meds have worked for me, others have adverse reactions to the meds. Everyone is different in what treatments work best for them. Wishing you positive results in your treatment plan.

October 14
MyPsoriasisTeam

It's completely understandable to feel scared — a new diagnosis plus a new medication is a lot to take in at once. The good news is that methotrexate is one of the most commonly used treatments for psoriatic arthritis, and many people tolerate it well, especially at the lower doses typically prescribed. The most common side Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel scared — a new diagnosis plus a new medication is a lot to take in at once. The good news is that methotrexate is one of the most commonly used treatments for psoriatic arthritis, and many people tolerate it well, especially at the lower doses typically prescribed. The most common side effects to be aware of include:

- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Mild hair loss
- Mouth sores

Many of these tend to ease over time or can be managed. For example, splitting the weekly dose into three smaller doses every 12 hours can help with nausea. Taking folic acid supplements (usually prescribed alongside methotrexate) also helps reduce some side effects. Regular blood tests will be part of the routine to monitor kidney and liver function, so there's a safety net in place. It's also worth avoiding alcohol while on methotrexate, as it can increase the risk of liver issues. A few tips for starting out:

- Ask your doctor upfront which side effects are likely to fade and which ones to watch closely
- Don't hesitate to call your doctor early — even at week one or two — if something feels off
- Keep communication open about whether symptoms are improving, so your doctor can assess if the medication is working for you
- Know that options exist — if methotrexate truly isn't tolerable, there are other treatments available, including biologics As one MyPsoriasisTeam member shared, they took methotrexate for nine years without too much trouble — so for many people, it can be a long-term, manageable option. You've got this! 💙

October 14
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

I remember being completely paranoid and scared to start HUMIRA. I talked with four of my doctors to get their opinion; rheumatologist, physiatrist, primary care, and orthopedic.

They all said the same thing that the risks that I was afraid of were very low and that the benefits without raise that risk.

I listen to them and I’m so glad I did. Although HUMIRA stopped working after about two years, then switched to Taltz which only worked for about seven months currently on ENBREL which I’ve been on for almost 2 years and it is working great for me.

I have had zero side effects from any of the biologics I’ve used thank goodness !

5 days ago
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

You can try the natural approach.

October 14

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Does anyone with PsA suffer from sporadic/widespread joint pain?

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Roanoke, VA
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