So I saw the RD on Tuesday, for my infusion. Usually I talk to the NP, but this time, His Holiness wanted to talk to me. He doesn't like how poorlly Remicade is working, wants more MRI's of my hands... and wants to discuss "other options" WHAT other options?? Enbrel failed, Humira failed, plaquinel did nothing, I can't take prednisone unless I want to have a pacemaker...
I'M GETTING TIRED OF THIS STUFF.
I guess I need to remind him that it took forevver for my cardiomyopathy to resolve, same with any kind of injury. Personally I'd rather give the remicade another 6 months.
The remicade IS working, just not as well as they'd hoped.
I am fighting to give Enbrel a longer chance Kathy. Put your foot down. I figure why use up our options too quick. But don't be too distressed - these two new ra drugs they are coming out with - I want to see how they do but they might be our hope.
Come on Kathy. Get tough - tell that rd that it is your body and you want to make final decisions about your treatment.
Good luck - Rox
There are other things he could add to the Remicade. Look at the web info on the other meds and be prepared for the discussion. The more informed you are, the better able you will be to fight your case.How long have you been on the Remicade?My dr. was so thrilled that I was able to discuss things with him with some knowledge. I thank the ppl on this board and all the info on the web, to be able to that!Knowledge is POWER in all aspects of life. The more information you have about RA the better your communications with your RD will be. I demand that all of my questions are answered. I make a list of questions and I personally hold the list and not give them to the Dr. If he starts to get up I just politely say that I'm not finished. I get a good response from my RD...a better response from him than the Enbrel, Mxt, Pred mix. You need to ask him the questions you've asked the forum and make him answer. Remember, take control. It's not easy because Drs. can be intimidating but they're human just like you and I. Kathy, tell me about Remicade. My 1st infusion will be 5/30th.