I started arava only a little over 2weeks ago (i think, close to that). I heard it usually takes 6 months to work.
I also started eliminating foods that hurt, no gluten, no dairy and trying no sugar but my cereal has it in it.
I was on 7.5mg pred because anything less and i was horribly crippled. I used a cane to get around, driving buggy at store etc. just to be able to get out.
Now, after changing my diet and getting on arava, i feel pretty darn good (except my flu thing), my pred is down to 2.5mg after about 3 years on it and no gain in swelling.
I am taking fish oil and my probiotics. I just hope it doesn't get worse or is some fluke thing because this is the best i have been in years and i can finally walk walmart instead of riding in a buggy.
Hi bubbagump,
When I started on Arava it was working in under 6 weeks. It was my miracle drug and if it wasn't for my RD and gastro doc getting scared by some of the side effects I have on it I'd stay on it. I'm only on 10mg and can't increase the dose, but it reduced all the swelling in my hands, reduced stiffness and everything. Since being on Arava I've been clubbing for the first time (I'm a student!), dancing for 8 hours straight, something which would have been impossible prior. I wish we could increase the dose and I could get the full benefit. I think if we could I'd be able to get off pred. finally (been on that a year and a half).
I love my Arava and would quite happily stay on it with side-effects. It is the only DMARD to have worked thus far - it's my 4th. Instead my RD is moving me onto Anti-TNF treatment
I'm glad it's working for you. Long may this turn around continue!
Bubba, congratulations. Isn't it great. The only dmards I've been on was AP therapy 10 years ago and currently MXT but I share in your joy. I noticed a great deal of change 6 months ago when I started dieting and eliminating sugars. The change was even more dramatic when I switched from Remicade to Humira and am now in clinical remission. Hoping it will last. Lindy
Hi Scattered.