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Has anyone opted not to try a biologic. My doc wants me to try humera. The patient reviews are scary. Dont know is i should do it

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
South Bend, IN
March 18, 2019
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Answer Summary

Members shared varied experiences with starting Humira for rheumatoid arthritis, with some noticing benefits within a week while others needed... Read more

Members shared varied experiences with starting Humira for rheumatoid arthritis, with some noticing benefits within a week while others needed several months, and most emphasizing that while the lengthy list of potential side effects can feel intimidating, the impact of untreated RA is often worse. Several members described practical advice, including asking for the citrate-free version to avoid injection pain, giving the medication 8 to 12 weeks to fully work, getting thorough baseline testing from cardiologists and hematologists before starting biologics, and remembering that everyone responds differently to treatment. A recurring theme was the importance of self-advocacy, listening to your own body, weighing the real risks of both treatment and non-treatment with your doctor, and knowing that if one biologic doesn't work or causes problems, there are other options to try.

A myRAteam Member

I have been taking Humira since last fall. It takes time for the drug to work, but I couldn't be happier-- very good results. Way less fatigue, way less pain. My husband has noticed how much more energy I have. And my rheumy said at the next visit we can discuss tapering down the Methotrexate and Plaquenil. There is no sting on injection at all (citrate-free Humira).

March 20, 2019 (edited)
A myRAteam Member

All I can say is we are all different. My pain after years has driven me to humaira. It was not the solution for me I will start infusions and again when pains are so bad you will try it. Yes it's scary but staying in a world of pain and in bed is scarier.
Be aware not anxious and see how ya do. Generally allow 8 to 12 weeks to see how ya do and let it get in there. If not improved by say 4 to 6 weeks somewhat tell your Dr. And move on . Good luck to you.

April 12, 2022
A myRAteam Member

Thank you all for your responses so appreciated. I just found out I have thyroid modules. From what the doc said there are several and some r quite large. I’m waiting for an appointment to get a biopsy. This has put the humera on hold. Anyone experience thyroid issues? Not sure now if I will /do want to take it knowing I have this and the cancer risk of the drug. A lot of decisions.

March 21, 2019
A myRAteam Member

At the moment I am avoiding biologics due to having melanoma and currently dealing with basal cell carcinoma. I endured major bowel problems last night after eating a taco salad. Dr. found polyp during my first colonoscopy so now I have one every 5 years. Turned 71 this January.

March 6, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Hard call. A personal one.i would see see if MTX works with occasional predisone if needed . I have done injections and infusions they state infusions do not cause blood clots . Orencia. Shots some can cause clots . Goal get a full check from cardiologist and go to a hematologist to ensure proper clotting . Not one Rhuematologist does this . Mine is proactive and did not do this. Mind you shots didn't work for me . Nor 4 months of infusions you maybe different. I ended up with bi lateral pulmonary embolism. I also now a small ascending aortic aneurysm about 4.3 . So we watch it. Listen to your body . That is the biggest advice I can give. Keep us posted and enjoy your day.
Joan

September 24, 2023

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