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A member asked:

When one is using methotrexate for arthritis or lupus, is the goal to supress the immune system so the auto diff labs are below normal or stay wnl?

A doctor has provided 1 answer
Dr. Steven Sheskier answered

Specializes in Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgery

Suppresses immune: Mtx is used to suppress the immune system . Doctors often use lab tests like RA factor or ANA levels to ascertain how active the disease is . Mtx can lower the numbers but is not necessary for them to be normal to be effective in controling your disease.

Dr Samuel and 2 doctors agreed

Answered 6/10/2014

5.2k views

Thank

Related Questions

A member asked:

If lupus went into remission & person no longer needed methotrexate, would methotrexate likely cause leukopenia (in someone with normal higher wbc)?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

A member asked:

On prednisone 4 lupus.Helps resolve lightheadedness/black outs.Started on 40mg.Stuck at12.5 mg despite being on methotrexate.Sx return at10mg.Normal?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

A member asked:

On methotrexate for lupus. I tend to feel great when my WBC is below normal range (2000) & have symptoms when it's normal (8000).Why?Is that common

A doctor has provided 1 answer

A member asked:

Can the typical dose methotrexate used for lupus increase ones chance of developing cancer? I'm worried about it. How many years is it "safe" to be on?

5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

A member asked:

Which is safer (less longterm risks) to use long term for lupus control: prednisone 5mg daily or methotrexate weekly? (i'm also on plaquenil).

A doctor has provided 1 answer

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