Hi everyone!
I have been on Remicade for more than one year, and received 10 infusions so far. I had one scope prior to the 4th infusion, and it seemed that my ulcers had 99% healed at that time. (though I always have symptoms like minor pain or diarrhea)
Yesterday, I talked with my doctor. She suggests to schedule another colonscope, and see how Remicade has been working. If the result is good, she thinks it is a good time to stop Remicade and turn to AZA.
Her reason is that, if I keep using Remicade given it has worked well, I will sooner or later develop antibody to it and lose efficacy. Once that happens, it will be a hard time for me. Alternatively, if I actively turn to AZA now, I will face a 50% chance of flare up within 1 year. Even when the relapse happens, I can still go back to Remicade, and it will work again for me.
I was wondering if there are anyone who share similar experience. How did your doctor give advice on it, and what did you choose? Thanks!
David
I have been on Remicade for more than one year, and received 10 infusions so far. I had one scope prior to the 4th infusion, and it seemed that my ulcers had 99% healed at that time. (though I always have symptoms like minor pain or diarrhea)
Yesterday, I talked with my doctor. She suggests to schedule another colonscope, and see how Remicade has been working. If the result is good, she thinks it is a good time to stop Remicade and turn to AZA.
Her reason is that, if I keep using Remicade given it has worked well, I will sooner or later develop antibody to it and lose efficacy. Once that happens, it will be a hard time for me. Alternatively, if I actively turn to AZA now, I will face a 50% chance of flare up within 1 year. Even when the relapse happens, I can still go back to Remicade, and it will work again for me.
I was wondering if there are anyone who share similar experience. How did your doctor give advice on it, and what did you choose? Thanks!
David