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How Long Do The Side Effects Of Methotrexate Last?

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Posted on Sat, 18 Jun 2016
Question: Hello,
I have recently been diagnosed with a small left ectopic pregnancy and I'm being treated with methotrexate. Initially, my doctors did not mention that one of the side effects of the medication, which I received as two injections of 50mg each, could be extreme bloating and debilitating gas cramps. Because I was unsure, I returned to the hospital in extreme pain, certain I was experiencing a rupture of the pregnancy mass.
My question is, what is the typical duration of the side effects of the methotrexate and how long I can effect to be in almost constant pain on some level? Also, are there any over the counter gas relief medications that I can take or that are specifically not recommended due to a possible negative interaction with the methotrexate.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Zenab Tambawala (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
do not worry

Detailed Answer:
Hi there,
Welcome to HCM,

Having pain abdomen which feels like the ectopic has ruptured is a very common feeling in women treated with methotrexate, almost 70% of women have this feeling. So do not worry as the amount of methotrexate will decrease gradually and over the next 3 weeks the side effects will diminish drastically.

Methotrexate is a difficult drug to take, but it has very good results for ectopic pregnancy. It causes gastritis, and can affect the liver.

For the gastritis or burning sensation you could take medications prescribe by a doctor avoid over the counter drugs.

The symptoms will definitely decrease and improve as the methotrexate goes out of your system which will take 3 weeks.

Hope this helps.
Regards.
Note: Revert back with your gynae reports to get a clear medical analysis by our expert Gynecologic Oncologist. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee
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Answered by
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Dr. Zenab Tambawala

OBGYN

Practicing since :2005

Answered : 837 Questions

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How Long Do The Side Effects Of Methotrexate Last?

Brief Answer: do not worry Detailed Answer: Hi there, Welcome to HCM, Having pain abdomen which feels like the ectopic has ruptured is a very common feeling in women treated with methotrexate, almost 70% of women have this feeling. So do not worry as the amount of methotrexate will decrease gradually and over the next 3 weeks the side effects will diminish drastically. Methotrexate is a difficult drug to take, but it has very good results for ectopic pregnancy. It causes gastritis, and can affect the liver. For the gastritis or burning sensation you could take medications prescribe by a doctor avoid over the counter drugs. The symptoms will definitely decrease and improve as the methotrexate goes out of your system which will take 3 weeks. Hope this helps. Regards.