Hi Dorothy!

 

I just found this site.  I've been newly diagnosed with RA (April of 2007).  I am on the same meds as you-minus the percocette.  The Methotrexate can cause some thinning of hair.  It did it to me, too?  Methotrexate has been used in stronger doses as a chemo drug, and that is one of the side effects.  Although, we are using a much lesser amount of medication than cancer patients, it still has that as a mild side effect.  I have found that once my body adjusted to the methotrexate after 3 or 4 months, my hair loss has lessened.

 

Ali Shell 

Hi Dorothy, I too was diagonsed with r.a. two years ago when I was sent to a rheumatologist by my family docotor.I was first tried on pain pills such as percocet and darvocet that didnt phase the pain. Then I was put on methotrexate,folic acid,and started out with a cortisone shot and prednisone. When the prednisone was gone the pain was back. I was then started on Humira and that helped for about 7 months until I started having severe allergic reations, all of a sudden major red blemish breakouts and itching.I have since been switched to Enbrel. Seems to be helping but not as well as the Humira. At least I can get out of bed in the mornings. I too have experienced the hair loss but it isnt terrible. Look at it this way do, I want to be able to function and have a little less hair? Or Have a full head and not be able to move without excruciating pain? I am 37 and in 2 years I have learned alot.I have a high tolerance for pain but this disease is no fun and not to be ignored regardless of how mild the pain because the damage is permanent.And for alot of us on going,If you ever need to talk to someone feel free to email me. Thanks and good luck. Don't let it get you down. A positive attitiude helps!