May 31, 2010
Ashley:
Greetings.
I was presented with Remicade at a time when it was the only “alternative drug” that had then been invented. As my body grew tolerant of the Initial Dose, I had to keep increasing the Dosage – and then even the Frequency of the Infusions. This was a MAJOR pain the butt since I had to go to some Hospital-type facility to have it infused. My body started to then have some strange reactions to the Remicade and once thing led to another and I was put in Humira. The Humira was SO MUCH EASIER because it was self-administered and just as effective but I soon had some reactions to it and I am now on a injectible drug called “Cimzia.”
I gave you the above history because it was my understanding that these drugs were not “discretionary” but were more different “lines of defense” due to their respective organic properties. I am not a scientist but it was explained to me in layman’s terms that the Researchers keep making Strides and these Advancements are making the drugs more “pure” and less artificially-supported. Accordingly, it would seem to make sense to start at Remicade and then if you have problems you can always go to Humira and then Cimzia, etc. However, there are also Costs Concerns, Lifestyle Concerns, etc.
Having said all that, I wouldn’t underestimate the psychological effect of one of these drugs “failing” for you and then not having more choices left. In that regard, I would listen to your Doctor and start where he or she thinks you should start. Then if you run into problems, you can always go to these other drugs –and to the drugs that are being invented as we speak. Good luck.