New to Remicade...is this normal?

[cdavidson52809]

So I started Remicade 2 weeks ago. I just had my second infusion. I have constipation usually and now I am going to the bathroom what seems like all day long. I am also extremely tired and can't seem to keep my eyes open at all. Between not being able to leave the bathroom and being so flippin tired I haven't been able to work. Is this normal? Will it ease up at all?

Oh yeah, I also just started the Fentnayl patch along with Norco. Could this have something to do with my symptoms?

 

[Jennifer]

Norco usually made me tired. How often are you taking it?

The Fentanyl patch can cause both symptoms: http://www.drugs.com/cdi/fentanyl-patch.html

When I was taking Remicade I did notice that it made me tired, not all day forever tired though. It did not cause diarrhea for me but it is listed as a possible side effect along with weakness http://arthritis.about.com/od/remicade/p/remicadefacts.htm When I was on Humira it made me extremely tired yet it seemed like that effect was starting to go away before I had to stop taking it.

Since the symptoms are extreme to the point of you not being able to work I'd give your doctor(s) a call and let them know (the one who prescribed Remicade and the other meds, unless its all the same doctor then its just one phone call) and see what they say. Being on three new meds at once can make it really hard to tell what's causing what so hopefully they'll be able to narrow it down.

Increase your fluid intake in the meantime. Hope you get answers soon and start feeling better.

 

[cdavidson52809]

Thanks Jennifer. The Norco isn't a new RX. Being this tired just started after I started the Remicade and the Fentnayl patch. The Norco never made me tired. It usually keeps me up. I will let my doctor know tomorrow. I really feel so run down that I don't even want to get out of bed. Having a 2 1/2 year old makes staying in bed impossible. lol.

On a better note though, I have felt better from my Crohns symptoms.

 

[plantluvr]

glad your crohns is under control. the pain patch can definitely make you very drowsy. might take time to get used to. havind d will also specially if you're dehydrated. maybe vitamin levels need to be checked. hope you feel better.

 

[iriechic]

cdavidson,
I am pretty new to Remicade too. I had two loading doses. I wish I had a constipation problem!! I'm on it for colitis but it hasn't stopped it completely. GI says can take longer so I imagine your symptoms will change too with more infusions. I understand about too tired to deal with toddler. I have a 5yr old and almost 2 yr old. I've had to get family, retired in-laws, to help. I feel bad burdening them but do need the extra support. Wishing you the very best!

 

[Chantelle]

Hi there, I'm due to start remicade on Thursday, I'm rather hopefull it works with little or no side effects as i have just got a job! I have been a stay at home mum to a 6yr and 3yr and boy do I know what you mean about being tired with children!! Why are you on fentanyl patches? I hope you get some relief soon!