Starting Remicade treatment today

[Silvastreak]

I am in the middle of a major flare up of my UC, have been on everything fom LLialda, Asacol, Cortofoam, Rowasa, Prednisone. After beng hospitalized this week (too much blood), we have decided to try Remicade. I am going for my first infusion today. I understand the procedure will take approx 3.5 hours. Will I be able to get up and move around? What if I have to go to the bathroom, which is a very likely possibility. My greatest fear with this is having an accident, it is forever on my mind.
Any advice would be helpful. This disease is kicking my butt, I need to get it under control.
Thanks

 

[Honey]

Hi there and welcome,
You can move around and go to the toilet as the Drip is attached to a stand. They will take bloods and monitor your blood pressure to check you are O.K. It takes about 4 hours which are pleasant . Take a book or your M.P.4 Music as you will be sitting for a long time. I get my lunch and coffee when I am in hospital for my infusions. It has reduced the inflammation for me as nothing else worked!! I am feeling better. So do not worry. Let me know how you do.

 

[Silvastreak]

Thanks for the response, heading over there in a few hours, will let you knwo how I do.

 

[Silvastreak]

My first Remicade treatment is complete, the doctor said it could take up to a week of more to kick in. I am hoping to get some relief befor then.
The staff at the hosptial were exellent, no issues there. The entire process took approx 4 hours, I'll have to work this into my schedule as they do not do this on the weekends. Has anyone experienced issues with their jobs due to this? I am thinking about going to HR to be on the record as I may have to miss work from time to time.
thanks

 

[Cross-stitch gal]

Glad to hear that your first Remicade went well! Please keep us updated on how you're doing. Sending hugs your way. :hug:

 

[Smallville]

Don't worry, they know the specifics of the disease Remicade is prescribed for. They will be attentive and let you move.

 

[Honey]

Hi there ,
So glad to hear from you. You will find ,I am sure, a big difference in the reduction of your symptoms. It has made a difference to my life. They wil monitor you closely, asking questions before each treatment and taking bloods. I hope all goes well for you. Let me know how you are. Best wishes.

4

 

[FrancisK7]

Hey Honey,

I've taken Salofalk, Mezavant, Asacol, Aza and prednisone.

I'm still flaring very badly, so I'm currently pushing for Remicade on my end.

Please let us know how soon you feel improvement!

 

[Honey]

Hi there, FrancisK7,
It took about a week before I began to experience less symptoms. Blood tests show the inflammatory markers are down considerably! I was on steroids for about 8 months as I was not keen to go on infusions. Every drug has side effects, I had already suffered Pancreatitis with one I reacted to, so I was afraid of what next? However, I agreed as Infliximab infusions was all that was left for me!! I have been doing well, in fact, just back after a holiday. It is only given when all else fails. It is an expensive treatment, so you will have to check with your Medical insurance to see if they will cover you. I hope this info helps you and of course, you feel better soon. Feel free to ask me any questions re treatment in a p.m.
:getwell::bigwave: