Methotrexate injections versus Remicade

Hi Folks:

I am into three weeks on the Methotrexate Injections and I am feeling better except that I developed a Kidney stone, very painful and my concern is that MTX can cause kidney damage, does anyone know the percentage of people who get kidney disease while on MTX?

As well, after reading all the possible side effects I am obviously concerned and started to research Remicade. I know it has some of the same side effects as MTX, but I wonder again on the percentage of people whom get these side effects.

Anyone out there that have been on both MTX and Remicade and what their experiences were with them and which one worked best for you? I just want to make an informed decision if I decide to stop taking MTX...as well I have noticed a large weight gain, and I am a petite person normally size 2 now up 18 pounds. Has anyone else experienced weight gain on MTX?

Has anyone on this forum dealt with a Crohns doc named Cohen who works out of Mt. Sunai Hospital in Toronto? I heard he was one amazing doctor.

Thanks Mary T

I have been taking mtx for a long time in pill form one time weekly and i don't take remicade i take orencia infusions. The MTX has given my liver a few fits and i have had to go off a few times but other that "normal" problems from lupus, RA, and other variety of problems i feel that the combination has helped quite a bit. I have IBS and have been checked for crohns but so far so good. I have a friend with Crohns she takes imuron or something like that but i know she has had some bowel removed and still has some issues.

Best wishes on your health. Auto immune... they are a challenge!!

I take Remicade for my Crohns and Methotrexate for my arthritis. My gastro team doesn't use Methotrexate for crohns The Remicade keeps my Crohns in check but I did develop arthritis. I don't experience side effects from either drug.