Weekly Methotrexate Injections (Nov. 11, 2006)

What are the MTX injections like?

Pretty awful! I hate giving them, and Anna hates receiving them. My husband tried giving them to her, but he must have been worse than I am at giving the shots, because she tearfully told us that she didn't want "Dad" to give her shots anymore. Anna just had a flu shot, and she was psyching herself up for it, and she was shocked at how fast and "easy" it was compared to her weekly methotrexate shot. Of course, the nurse at the doctor's office gave it to her. Anna told my husband, as soon as he came in the door that night, about that flu shot, and how is was SO easy compared to her Methotrexate shots, and she said, "But of course, the nurse IS a professional, and mom isn't!" :o) Anna usually feels like she has to throw up immediately afterwards.

How often does Anna need them? Once a week. We give them on Saturdays.

Are they harder than a typical vaccination? Anna (who just came in the room) says, "Yes, because the nurses at the doctor's office are experts, so it doesn't really hurt as much." :o)

Does the pain linger after the shot? Anna says, "Sometimes."