Unsure What To Do

[JohnathanO]

I have been in and out of a flare for 4 months now. I was on pred and it helped and i weaned of at the request of my doc. I was feeling great for a month or so then the symptoms started again. Right now i have lower to mid back pain, spastic colon and it is really noisy all day. I do take tylenol and it helps but at night i can watch my tummy harden then go down and garggle. I have been approved for Humira but I am scared to do it. I am not sure why since i have taken Remicade before and it put me into remission for almost 4 years. I know it is all my decision but can anyone throw me some insite?

 

[Jennifer]

What did your GI tell you as to why they want you to take Humira instead of Remicade? I haven't taken either but I know that I would ask the GI why and if its not needed, you could suggest Remicade instead and they will tell you if its a good idea or not.

 

[ameslouise]

I was TERRIFIED of Humira and avoided it for 6 months while I got worse and worse. I didn't want to take it because I am queen of side effects and get everything listed, even the stuff .1% of patients see as a side effect!

And you know what??? I have been on it for 6 months and haven't had single side effect! (Knock wood).

My point is - nothing can be worse than you are feeling already, right? And pred over the long term is no way to go. Way too dangerous and talk about side effects!

I use the Humira pen and it is super easy to use. I am also now on Methrotrexate, was terrified of using a real needle, and can now stick myself with the best of them!

Talk to your doc about your fears. If you have already had success with Remi, then I don't think there's anything to be scared of!

Good luck - Amy

 

[Nica]

5 years ago I almost did clinical trials for Humira for crohn's. I read the very scary paperwork on it and chickened out. fast forward 5 years my disease went rampant, massive scar tissue. Doc finally got me to try humira. I am one that reacts to everything. I have reacted to Remicade along with the fact my family has a heart health history that is unreal (37 year olds having a stroke, 40 year olds heart attack and conjestive heart failure!) But, I finally tried it. So far I have had limited side effects and it is working at some degree on the crohns. Its working better than anything else has to date.

I suggest talking to your GI and telling him your concerns and do your own research to see if the benefits out weigh the risks for you. They do for me.