Chemotherapy for Lupus Treatment

My Rheumatologist confirmed that my lupus evolution needed to get under some medical control. My latest blood work and current physical ailments confirmed her assessment. Chemotherapy was my only next option. The medically prescribed cocktails were not warding off my symptoms.

Drug: Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapy drug and immune system suppressant. May be prescribed in pill or IV form.

What does it do? It slows down your body's immune system and helps reduce inflammation.

Rheumatologist Prescribes: Folic acid tablets, this is a man-made version of vitamin B9. It helps protect the healthy cells in your body and reduces some of the side effects of methotrexate.

I was given Methotrexate in pill form. Every Monday morning for a month, I swallow four tiny, almost insignificant pills. I remain on Prednisone, which also suppresses the immune system. I was frightened going into this process because damn...my immune system is non-existent. I am physically and mentally tired. Strategically, I book my acupuncture the day after taking methotrexate. The acupuncture treatments help to relieve the physical pain and balances my mental state. I have to remind myself to be kind. Allow family and friends to help. This will be a trying month. I have felt bloated, headaches, constipation, sweats, sleep apnea, weight gain...it's not good but it will not stay that way. This process is only so I can go onto my next medical evolution apparently, for the remainder of my human life.

Next month...My rheumatologist will be prescribing me Humira or Enbrel...stay tuned Lupies. I have to be kind to myself and sleep.

In Three Words I Can Sum Up Everything I've Learned About Life: It Goes On - Robert Frost