Starting Remicade...

[bethany84]

Hi all!

Just a quick one... Just wondering how many of you had to have a course of steroids before/whilst starting Remicade? My doc mentioned this and I didn't really see why when I'm not on them at the moment?

I find out tomorrow if I get the go ahead to start Remi...wish me luck! x

 

[Mountaingem]

Hi! I didn't start my infusions while on pred, but I had previously been on it for 9 months before I gave in and tried Remicade. My guess is they don't want you to have an allergic reaction to it, which can be common with the first few loading doses.

Have you ever had an allergic reaction to other biological drugs? How about an allergic reaction to Imuran or Azathioprine? I had a severe alleric reaction to Imuran and Azathioprine and so the nurses administered the Remicade VERY slowly and watched me like a hawk, in addition to having me take Benadryl the night before and again right before the infusion. I get a little reaction but no big deal, just a headache and a little rash.

Best wishes on getting the green light and a positive first infusion! I personally LOVE LOVE Remicade...it turned be back into a semi-normal person!

 

[GurgleGurgle]

Hi Bethany...check out the Remicade Club within the Treatment Forum. Lot's of good information and dialogue going on about Remicade. You just might find answers to your questions amongst us. I'm looking forward to my next infusion in a couple of weeks. I like to think of it as my spa/therapy day. I haven't had to pre-medicate yet, but I think that will change since I was just diagnosed with severe Asthma. It's just a precaution though, nothing to worry about. Best of luck with your infusion. Let us know how you make out.

 

[My Butt Hurts]

I know that I was on steroids just before I started Remicade, but I can't remember if I took them at the same time or weaned off just before starting it. I hope it works as well for you as it is working for me right now.
Good luck!

 

[bethany84]

Thanks gurgle, I have checked out the remi club and although I have been nervous about it, after reading everyones stories and advice, I was really ready, and dare I say even looking forward to joining the club!! However after seeing my doc today, they have decided it is not that time just yet. I don't think it will be too long until I can join the club though. It is frustrating but a good thing I guess for now??x

 

[Drummer]

I'm actually starting Remicade tomorrow and I'm currently on Prednisone as well. Doctor said he will be weening me off the Pred in the next month or two though.

I'm a little nervous about getting the infusion too, but this forum has eased it a bit. Hope you are doing well and would love to hear about your first infusion experience.

 

[vonfunk]

I'm on a high dose of Pred because of a flare up, and just had my first dose of Remicade on Wednesday.
It was nothing. They hooked up the IV, and I watched TV for 3 hours. I had no problems with it.