methotrexate

This happened to me as well. I now have a trigger finger on my left hand as well.

I was on methotrexate decades ago for reactive arthritis, which went into remission after 6 mo. Did your doctors put you on a different anti-inflammatory drug that wasn't as effective? It might to good to check back if it has been a while. If you have RA there are new treatments, such as CAR-T and biologics, including clinical trials if your insurance is limited. There are also treatments for trigger finger, such as cutting the sheath that puts pressure on that nerve in your hand, cortisone injections proximal to the nerve, and even accupuncture.

@kayabbott I've been taking Leflunomide for my RA... only 2 months and having severe skin issues, therefore I have decided to stop this medication. Are you saying that methotrexate made your RA go into submission? Thanks for any advice!

@donna2008 I had reactive arthritis (aka Reiter's syndrom) in 1989-90. It hasn't recurred. Before stopping your meds, it would be good to talk with your rheumatologist, or get a second oppinion. A dermatologist if your skin issues are treatable is good. It is important to get all the facts, advantages, side effects, clinical trials. Some meds work for us, some don't. Potential collateral damage from RA can be bad, so finding what works is important. Traditional RA meds have mostly focused on suppressing one's immune response, and some take a few months/med adjustment to start to work. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20778-leflunomide-tablets

I am continuing my hydroxychloroquine and low dose Prednisone to keep my RA in check. Besides that the Leflunomide takes a very long time to get out of your system, so I assume that too will help keep my RA in check. After researching I'm now considering meds by IV if my doctor agrees and it's paid for by Medicare. I was shocked to find how expensive these meds are. Thank you for responding to my post! Take care, God Bless

my right thumb was triggered for unknown reasons. I had a minor surgery, incision was no more that 1/2 an inch and that took care of it. The surgery was in Jan 2026. We are now in September and going well.

@damarisgiraldo that surgery has been suggested for me. But I've found that wearing a copper compression glove at night seems to be helping. Glad your procedure went well. Good to know for the future if I need it.