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?
Q: How often should I have blood tests to determine if the Methotrexate is causing damage to my liver?
Answers (7)
6/17/08 6:27pm
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
6/12/08 11:20pm
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.
6/17/08 11:13am
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.
7/ 1/08 3:11pm
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!
7/11/08 11:39pm
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
8/26/08 12:27am
Twice
Monthly is what my RA and pain mgmt drs have me do
9/29/08 8:52am
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.
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
By Monty— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 06/12/08
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
