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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Folitrax Safe To Be Taken For Arthritis?

I am 52 year old man having early stage of arthritis,though I have a negetive RA factor n CCP doctor has prescribed me folitrax 10 mg once a week & lyfra 1 daily. Folitrax is steroid ??? What are the side effects of both medicine.? What is the percentage of side effects in India? How long one can take these medicines? Is there any other safe alternative to these medicines? Any other medicines to prevent side effects
Mon, 12 Dec 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi & Welcome.
Yes, it is safe to be taken for rheumatoid arthritis.

Based on the history you seem to have seronegative (negative Rh factor) rheumatoid arthritis for which your doctor has prescribed Folitrax and Lefra. These are disease modifying anti-rheumatoid drugs useful in decreasing joint damage and disability caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

Folitrax (Methotrexate) is not a steroid.

Its most common side effects include mouth ulcers, stomach upset, diarrhea, liver injury, kidney dysfunction, bone marrow depression resulting in anemia, bleeding, and increased risk of infections. These side effects can be prevented by taking Folinic acid along with Folitrax.

Initially it is prescribed for 4-6 weeks, then depending upon the response it may be continued thereafter.

Lefra (Leflunomide) is also not a steroid.

Its most common side effects include stomach upset, diarrhea, increased heart rate, hair loss, liver dysfunction and bone marrow depression.

Other alternate effective but safer medications include hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, etc.

Hope these answer your query.

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Is Folitrax Safe To Be Taken For Arthritis?

Hi & Welcome. Yes, it is safe to be taken for rheumatoid arthritis. Based on the history you seem to have seronegative (negative Rh factor) rheumatoid arthritis for which your doctor has prescribed Folitrax and Lefra. These are disease modifying anti-rheumatoid drugs useful in decreasing joint damage and disability caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Folitrax (Methotrexate) is not a steroid. Its most common side effects include mouth ulcers, stomach upset, diarrhea, liver injury, kidney dysfunction, bone marrow depression resulting in anemia, bleeding, and increased risk of infections. These side effects can be prevented by taking Folinic acid along with Folitrax. Initially it is prescribed for 4-6 weeks, then depending upon the response it may be continued thereafter. Lefra (Leflunomide) is also not a steroid. Its most common side effects include stomach upset, diarrhea, increased heart rate, hair loss, liver dysfunction and bone marrow depression. Other alternate effective but safer medications include hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, etc. Hope these answer your query.