Hello, and thank you for welcoming me | Arthritis Information

I am 63 years old and have had psoriasis since I'm 21 and arthritis since I'm 25. I have long resisted methotrexate and biologicals because my psoriasis was adequately controlled by Dovonex ointment (rest in peace, old friend, I really miss you) and UVB light. My arthritis has been fairly stable over the past decade except for my right hand, which chronic and necessary use has resulted in grotesque deformity.

However, over the past year the psoriasis has gone out of hand and nothing seems to work. It is exhausting to spend 45 minutes every morning glopping on Dovonex cream and dovobet, both of which have become entirely useless in the UVB light hasn't done much better.

You know where the story is going: last week I took my first autoinject 50mg Enbrel injection and yesterday my second. Neither shot was particularly painful and the side-effects have been just bruising with a little bump. I intend to continue with it so long as I can, especially since my wife currently has 100% coverage (hallelujah) although I don't know at this point it will continue past January 1 or drop down to 80%.

I am pleased to have found this bulletin board and intend to milk the other members for their knowledge and advice, while offering the same to those who could benefit from it from me.

Thank you.