Simponi Or Actemra | Arthritis Information

 

Hi everyone, Sharo2011-05-29 12:38:25

 

Sharo2011-05-29 12:39:26Hi Sharon! Like yourself, I was on Orencia for about 2-3 years also. It worked OK, but the last year we had to up the infusions to 1000 mg every two weeks, instead of once a month. That worked for about a year, but then became ineffective. I've been on Simponi for almost two years, and since it hasn't worked as well as the Orencia, I've also had to increase my injections to every two weeks instead of once monthly.

My RD and I have discussed Actemra in great length, and I will probably ultimately end up on it,  but he is reluctant because of the side effects. I know we have a few people on Actemra, so hopefully they will chime in and give you their opinion. As far as the Simponi though, for me, it hasn't proven to be that "wonder drug".

Good luck with whatever you decide!
Gale,I'm taking Simponi.  I was on Enbrel and it worked GREAT for 2 years.  Then, I started hurting again.  I don't know about you kweenb, but I like the pre-filled syringes A LOT better than the auto-injector. When the recall happened on the auto-injectors, I didn't have to miss any doses, my RD immediately called in for the pre-filled syringe. After using these, I will never go back to auto-inject...I struggled getting those to trigger every time!

I agree too.  I'm worried that this is going to happen again.  If it does, I'm just asking the rheumy to switch to the syringe.  I find the syringe a lot more comfortable in the hand.  The button on the autoinector, for some reason, is difficult for me press.  I much preferred heo location of the button on Enbrel.

Brinsen, Did you have trouble with the pen because of hand problems, or was it the pen itself that was hard to use?  (I have a problem making a fist with my right hand, but my doctor suggested ordering the pen and has me scheduled for instruction on how to use it.  My right thumb has been fused, but I think I could manage the pre-filled syringe. Thanks for responding.  Sharon Kweebe,  Thanks for letting me know how the Simponi is working for you.  Hope you continue to do well!  SharonSharon, I think the problem with the auto-ject was a little bit of both. It's a nice fat pen, so you don't really have to make a fist, but I didn't find it all that easy to grasp AND push the button at the same time. The button itself is a big problem too...it doesn't release easily, and many times I used one hand to hold the pen and the other hand to push the button. The pre-filled syringes are MUCH easier.
Sharon-I'm due to start Actemra as soon as the GI dr. can figure out why I keep having to go inpatient due to gi issues.  It seems that Actemra can cause GI complications so the rd won't start until we figure it out.  I've been on every other med which makes me nervous.  Hate being out of options.  I was diagnosed as a teen and had a very aggressive dr at the time.  I credit her for allowing me to be as active and independent as possible.  Rocckyd, I don't post often, but I know you've had a struggle with RA and its complications.  I was diagnosed at 25 (I'm 67 now) and also had a very agressive doctor for the times.  I know my early treatment has been what's kept me active all these years.  It helps so much to hear from others who are in the same boat.  Thank you for your message...I hope you are able to start the Actemra soon.  I will hold positive thoughts for you....you deserve to feel better soon!  SharonSharo2011-05-29 12:36:24
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