How often should I have blood tests to determine if the Methotrexate is causing damage to my liver?
I was told that I would have to have periodic blood tests and urine samples when I began taking Methotrexate. I have taken it for about six months and have had one blood test (after the first month) and no urine samples. Is this normal?
I have been taking methotrexate now for a few months. 2.5 mg tablets at 8 per week. I am new to RA so I am not sure what normal testing would be for this drug but I will tell you what I do. My rheumatologist told me to have bloodwork done monthly. However, it is my responsibility to go to the lab every month and have this done- no reminder from the doctor or the lab. If I were you I would insist upon more frequent testing. Hope this helps.
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I have been on methotrexate now for quite a few years and you should have a blood test every month. You should have a full blood count and an admin profile every month and a ESR at least every 6 months or more often. It is your responsibiity to go to your doctors surgery every month and have this done. Hope this helps.
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Hi Monty,
Thanks for your question. It is recommended to have your liver function tested every 1-2 months while taking methotrexate. It is also recommended to have a CBC (complete blood count) and platelet count every month, and have your kidney function checked every 1-2 months. You can read more about methotrexate here.
Best of luck,
Casey
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My doctor had me have a blood test 2 weeks after the inital starting of meth and then every 6 weeks after. Hope this helps!
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i have been on methotrexate for a year and a half i have blood tested every 3 months i have to see my rheumatologist every 3 months no urine
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Twice
Monthly is what my RA and pain mgmt drs have me do
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I would say it is not normal. My rheumatologist insisted on blood work screenings for liver and kidneys and CBC every 3 weeks, and it's been like clockwork. Good luck.
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