This is my first post on the forum. I wish I had found this resource years ago. I am in the loading phase with Cimzia. I've received the injections for week zero, week 2, and will complete the loading phase this Thursday. I have experienced a mild rash at the injection sites. My main problem is that I am still experiencing relapse type symptoms (bloating, pain, upset stomach). I am sticking with it because my doctor said it may take time for it to start working. I know there is probably not an answer, but how long does it take on average before you know if it will provide positive benefit?
A little history with my CD, I was doing well a few years ago with a maintenance therapy of Pentasa. My CD is in the sigmoid colon. My insurance removed Pentasa from their "list" and I shifted to alternative therapy (VSL#3, Flax Oil, L-Glutamine, Cucumin, Forvia Multivitamin, Fennel tea to combat bloating). I lasted a year without meds and have been on a roller coaster ever since. I use prednisone and uceris to combat flares but simply hate being on those. I had one episode of bacterial overgrowth and used a new antibiotic called Xifaxin which was so much better than flagyl. I was also on Remicade for about 8 years after my initial diagnosis in 2002 but developed an allergic reaction to it.
Anyway, I've probably said too much. I'm giving Cimzia a shot and trying to stay positive. I am a school teacher and it is really becoming a struggle. I am an excellent teacher when I feel well but it is impossible when I am in a flare. I simply want to sleep all the time.
Thanks for listening. It helps just writing this down.