What are Biologics? Can someone give me any advice?
I'm on MTX [5 and a hlaf months] and sulfasalazine [new to it... 2 tablets in] and my doc said after 3 months of the 2 drugs togther if my numbers don't go down and my symptoms are still bad I could start Biologics. But I have no idea what these are?
I have no idea if I'll get to them, the 2 drugs may work together. But, just incase I do need Biologics I would like to have a bit of forward knowledge.
Thanks for any advice :)
Pondie
A good web site to give you lots of info is www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/biologics-rheumatoi d-arthritis/treatment
I am on Humira and its not too bad, only seem to have a rash but am off it at the moment due to being on antibiotics.
Hi, Ponde. I'm on Remicade (just 2 treatments) and MTX & currently prednisone for help until the other drugs take hold. I'm impressed with the results of the prednisone (3 X 5mgs) on an immediate relief. I'm going to have to reduce/eliminate it when I can. All of these drugs are extreme, but we must prevent the joints from 'going'. Good luck on all this it is a full time job sorting out what works, how to deal with pain/stiffness and everything else that gets in your way while you have to deal with RA. It can cause fatigue, and other unexpected problems. I hope you have a good doctor, that's important. I'm not hurting anymore.
The biologics actually work at a cellular level. Sounds scary but they have been a lifesaver to many--including me. You will probably continue taking the MTX with them. Being younger-I would really reccommend them if the doctor feels that you should. You want to stay active and enjoy college. In the past they started out RA treatments with a wait and see approach. Now dr.'s have found that being aggressive in the beginning can make a BIG difference. I was 19 too when diagnosed. It was the first real time that a major medical decision was left up to me-not my parents. That does make it a bit more stressful-as you know.
If you are away at school Enbrel and Huimra are probably the best bet. They are injections that you can give yourself. Sounds scary but depending on the med it would only be once or twice a week or every other week. Remicade is given by an IV so that probably would not work with your college health dept.
Becky
They were going to do the "wait and see" approach, but I pushed for meds. I was fed up of 5/6 months with the MTX not working.
I'm glad I pushed. My new consultant has decided to be more aggressive :)
Good news being more aggressive. While I was Dr hopping looking for a Dx and they were always just going by my negative labs they should have been treating me. I am in my 3rd week of Enbrel awaiting results. Good for you to begin treatment and pushing your Dr. I have now learned how to be a patient and look out for myself.:) Thanks hun. Hope the new meds go well! x