Question
Diagnosed with acute inflammatory Ra 2/06 – Being treated with methotrexate weekly and nsaids – pain and flare ups improved 60% – now have edema of hands legs and feet. — have been on toprol for a slight arrythmia for 3 years. Can methrotrexate or RA cause kidney malfunction? Cardioliogist and arthritis MDs disagree? I am 77 years old. Have had osteo arthritis for 25 yrs. I have been highly functioning up until January 2006.
Answer
Methotrexate does not cause kidney problems and does not cause leg swelling. RA also does not cause kidney problems. However, NSAIDs can cause kidney problems and/or leg swelling.
