The Methotrexate and Diclofenac was a Horrible Mistake

Bones, joints and muscles
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I posted previously about my husband's experience with a general practitioner that saw his high RF factor, and simply prescribed Methotrexate and Diclofenac without any follow up at all. He suffered 7 weeks on those drugs, and finally was able to get into a Rheumatologist this week!  The Rheumy was actually upset that the GP would do that, and ordered him to stop taking them immediately.  He said that without any xrays at all, he can't just assume it's RA. And with the stomach ulcers in the past, and a current ultrasound showed lesions in the esophagus, he should not be taking NSAIDs of any kind. He had a major bout of internal bleeding a few days before the appointment that the Rheumy said could have killed him. 

His diagnosis so far is actually fibromyalgia, joint pain, liver damage, and possible esophageal cancer or esophagitis. He felt it's possible he may have early RA, and has ordered several xrays of hands/feet/back, plus a very specific round of blood tests to ascertain the issues.   So thankful for the new doctor!  And for everyone who responded to my earlier queries here. The Methotrexate made him so miserable, and the NSAID nearly put him in the hospital. 

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ps. He was prescribed Gabapentin and Prilosec, and is forbidden from taking any NSAID or Tylenol products, now. 

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i thought to be prescribed methotrexate u had to be seen by a Rheumatologist first and a general practittioner would not be allowed to prescribe metho until been seen by RA doctor..

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That is certainly the case in the UK Bob - but trixietyme is in the US I think since she mentions Tylenol.

I have to say - I'm appalled ANYONE would assume a high RF factor alone meant it was definitely RA and hand out methotrexate. GPs in general (there are exceptions to be fair) are far too keen on giving patients NSAIDs - but panic when a patient is put on steroids. 

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What a time you've both had! Hopefully now the balls rolling he'll start some effective treatment. I sincerely hope so. Carol x

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Yes, in the US. A GP is really discouraged from prescribing Methotrexate like that, especially with no follow up at all. Reckless!  I agree so much on the NSAIDs, they are a major problem and so overused. Hoping this is the path to figuring it all out. Glad this doctor is actually taking hand/feet/back xrays to assess damage.