Psoriatic Arthritis

[iyrao]

I am diagnosed with Psoriasis (Scalp and lower back) and Psoriatic Arthritis.
I would like to know is there a cure for Psoriasis and related arthritis..
Doctors prescribe me NSAIDS and they are recommending me to start on Methotrexate (DMARDS)..
Do you recommend to use methotraxate ( I am worried about the side effects of methotrexate)
Thanks

[jagesh50]

Yes because it induces remissions in refractory cases,and with proper investigation supporting, can be a good tool in the management.But then requires constant vigil and cessation of therapy may be contemplated if something goes wrong being a toxic drug.Pregnancy has to be avoided,applies to men too to practice safety measures.Alcohol can increase incidence of liver damage.

[curlyq69]

i have been taking mtx since february and have noticed a great improvement in my arthritis along with my psoriasis.  i'm not sure why i've waited so long.  i've had psoriatic arthritis for over 15 years!!
i tried to avoid mtx for years, but it got to the point that i could not deal with the swelling any longer.
it is true.   you will need to go for monthly blood work to make sure that it is not affecting you liver.  (for the record i like to have a few drinks on the weekends and my liver has been fine - may not be the case for everone but if you go for your bloodwork monthly you should be fine)  and you may be prone to other stuff such as mouth sore and cankers (or at least this is what i've been experiencing).
i did not want to take this drug.  i really tried to manage it on my own.  from what i can understand it's best to get started while your joints are in good shape!  mtx will help protect you from further damage..?
hope this helps...  good luck!