Q's to ask Before Remicade/Humira?

[Asher]

hi guys! My doctors want me to choose between Remicade or Humira, and I have some meetings with them coming up in the next couple weeks.

What questions did you ask before starting these meds?

I have some questions in mind-- the more obvious regarding weakened immune system, short/long term side effects, lymphoma worries and all that...

But i am curious about the questions you asked before starting!

One question I want to ask, and please tell me if this is silly, but I read that Remicade is made from Mouse Proteins, and I am allergic to guinea pigs, which are a type of rodent so I don't know if that's going to do anything wonky to me.

Thanks for helping me research!

 

[Lisa]

Hi Asher -

The mention of being allergic to guinea pigs is a VERY good one to ask!

Some differences between the two - as you stated, Remicade is produced with mouse proteins, while Humira is not.
With Remicade, you have to go to an infusion clinic or hospital to have the treatment - where would you have to go to get that done?
Insurance would have to approve either one, so how long would the approval process take?

I'm sure others will have more, I need to get back to work lol

 

[Tesscorm]

Before you start either one, ask if your immunity levels can be checked. Live vaccines are not allowed once on an immunosuppressant; if you are not already on an immunosuppressant (ie 6MP, aza, etc.), this is the opportunity to check your immune levels and have a booster if necessary (but do ask if you would need to wait a minimum period after a live vaccine before starting remicade/humira). I wasn't aware that childhood vaccines don't always provide 100% immunity and, unfortunately, found out only after my son had commenced on remicade that he does not have full immunity to mumps. Had I known earlier, I would have given him a booster before starting on remicade.

Also, do give some thought to infusion (remicade) or self-administered shots (humira). Each has it's pros/cons, so really a matter of which will work best with your schedule. Also, related to scheduling... You may also want to ask about follow-up labwork. My son initially had labs done at every infusion (every 6 weeks), he now has them done at every other infusion. His labs are done just before infusion is started. Keep in mind, if you do humira, you will need to go to lab for bloodwork.

As with any med, ask when you can expect to see benefit from the med and how/when progress will be tested.

Good luck.