What are side effects of Humira and Remicade?

[loriwithchrons]

So, Ive had Crohn's and colitis for 25 plus years, luckily, no surgeries yet. My GI Dr. has really been pushing Remicade and my friendly surgeon Dr. said if I were to try remicade it would change my life....the thing is....I can't get the GI to explain how it works...One of my previous GI Dr. told me the treatment cost $100,000 as if that were a reason I would want to try it....Im so frustrated as I have read the possible side effects and do not want to risk having a seizure or getting tuberculosis or lymphoma....to treat my Crohn's, knowing there is no cure....I can't seem to get a straight answer out of them about these two drugs...I have used prednisone to control the inflammation and about 13 years ago was told I have to stop because it was destroying my bones...medication induced osteoporosis....Recently the Remicade infusion nurse told me if I were to get Lymphoma that I would then be treated with chemotherapy....AS IF ALL I WANT TO DO IS BE MEDICATED....I DON'T... I have a hard time with the side effects... I am very sensitive and so far using diet and alternative I have managed to not have any surgeries...Although my stress level has been at an all time high these past few years...Im just stuck....frustrasted....sick as a dog...consumed by pain day and night...and I would like to hear from those that have used Remicade and or Humira for Crohn's and or Colitis, as I have both....
Anyone??? Side effects....benefits??? Thanks....

 

[FrozenGirl]

Welcome!
I would recommend posting under the Humira or Remicade forum for best response.
A TB test is usually done prior to ensure the don't active latent TB. Lymphoma has been seen in some anti tnf patients but it is a very small increase in risk and most doctors believe the dangers of untreated crohns/ UC is worse. I'm currently on Remicade and for me the potential benefits outweigh the small increase in risks.

 

[Chica]

Hi, I know several people, including myself, who have been on it for a while & it is quite simply life changing. As Frozen girl says, the benefits far outweigh the small risks. I also know a lovely chap who is high up in Pharmaceuticals who was involved in Remicade's development. He says it's one of the cleanest, most direct drugs out there & he'd recommend it to his own sister. Good luck : )