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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭

I've been on Hydroxychloroquine for over a year and about 5 months ago added methotrexate, only 6mg per week. I recently just got bloodwork back with severely low white blood cells counts and elevated liver counts, I have been told to stop the medication until they can figure out why and I have to take increase dose of folic acid. I'm getting bloodwork Redone at the end of the week. Has this happened to anyone else? If so what ended up happening?

August 15, 2023
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A MyLupusTeam Member

If taking methotrexate you have to take prescription folic acid with it. It is a chemotherapy drug and can really screw up your liver and kidneys. I can’t take it anymore. Next my doctor tried plaquanal ( spelling wrong). It caused eye problems which my ophthalmologist caught . I now take imuran and Sulfasaline. Some relief but some days not enough.

September 2, 2023
A MyLupusTeam Member

I’ve read that folate is better to take than folic acid.

November 21, 2023
A MyLupusTeam Member

I had a terrible reaction to methotrexate and stopped after three weeks. I then went on folic acid for about three weeks, I also started plaquenil and have been on it for about five years. My doctor also requires me to see my eye doctor every six months. About two years ago I did have to have cataract surgery, and all good since.

October 4, 2023
A MyLupusTeam Member

I don't take the folic acid that the prescribing pharmacy was giving me. I found out the synthetic form (folic acid) has ill-effects, as if Methotrexate isn't tough enough. I use a Folate supplement and everyone else should consider that, as well.

September 9, 2023
A MyLupusTeam Member

You're correct! Please take the natural Folate / L-Methylfolate instead of the synthetic Folic Acid.

November 22, 2023 (edited)

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