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Starting dosage of methotrexate?

Posted by Theodorabee @theodorastronger, Oct 19, 2024

Hello, I'm about to start Rasuvo subcutaneous injections of methotrexate for RA which has caused inflammation and pain in my hands and wrists.

I'd very much appreciate knowing what dosage others in this situation have been prescribed.

My rheumatologist prescribed 15 mg, but I see many references--including Rasuvo's literature--that suggest a starting dose of 7.5 mg. I'm worried that taking the 15 mg will cause worse side effects than half the dose.

Thanks!

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Theodorabee | @theodorastronger | Oct 21, 2024
In reply to @slkanowitz "I have taken methotrexate for years, both the oral and injectable forms and have done well..." + (show)
@slkanowitz

I have taken methotrexate for years, both the oral and injectable forms and have done well on it. The injections bypass the G.I. tract which lessens the chance of nausea but many people do well on the oral doses without any nausea at all. I have been on as high as 25 mg a week, although most physicians like to keep it at 20 mg or less. I would guess your physician chose your starting dose with your symptoms and level of severity in mind to give you relief as quickly as possible without causing undue side effects. Doses Can be adjusted upward or downward, depending on your response. I hope it works well for you!

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Thank you!

REPLY
mxtdude | @mxtdude | Mar 16 8:58pm

I am on 15mg. First week I was just tired. 2nd week I recovered by Thursday (does was Monday). Now nothing. I am coming off Prednisone, and at 20mg of that from 40mg two weeks ago. I am on week 6, starting week 7 tomorrow March 17 2025. So far, feeling good.

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Mentor
John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Mar 17 8:11am
In reply to @mxtdude "I am on 15mg. First week I was just tired. 2nd week I recovered by Thursday..." + (show)
@mxtdude

I am on 15mg. First week I was just tired. 2nd week I recovered by Thursday (does was Monday). Now nothing. I am coming off Prednisone, and at 20mg of that from 40mg two weeks ago. I am on week 6, starting week 7 tomorrow March 17 2025. So far, feeling good.

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Welcome @mxtdude, It's good to hear you feeling good with tapering off of prednisone. Have you been diagnosed with RA or PMR?

REPLY
pm56 | @pm56 | Mar 18 12:19pm

I take 20 mg SUBQ every week. I started at 20 mg every other week to begin with and then my rheumatologist increased it to weekly. No ill effects as yet. Been on it for 6 years now (I have RA/spondyloarthropathy). Hope it works for you. Best of luck!!

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