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Opinions Wanted!

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Chicago, IL

Hey, RA friends. I’d love to get some opinions on a situation I’m experiencing and I’m curious if other people have gone through something similar
I’ve been waiting for several months to get Xeljanz approved but it just got rejected for the second time yesterday. My rheumatologist believes I should try a JAK-inhibitor because I have failed Enbrel and Humira (two TNF blockers), but to be honest, I’m pretty nervous about it. All of the JAK-inhibitors out there come with a risk of blood clots,… read more

February 26, 2020
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Answer Summary

Members shared deeply personal experiences navigating insurance denials and medication trials for rheumatoid arthritis, with many describing... Read more

Members shared deeply personal experiences navigating insurance denials and medication trials for rheumatoid arthritis, with many describing similar frustrations trying to get JAK inhibitors like Xeljanz approved after failing multiple TNF blockers such as Enbrel and Humira. Several members offered encouraging perspectives on Xeljanz specifically, describing significant relief and improved bloodwork after switching, while acknowledging the understandable fear of blood clot risks but feeling the benefits outweighed potential dangers for their quality of life. A recurring theme was the exhausting trial-and-error process of finding the right medication, the reality that all RA drugs carry frightening side effects that require difficult trade-offs, and the importance of advocating for what feels right for your own body while staying open to your doctor's guidance.

A myRAteam Member

Hi there. I take Xeljanz and it works great. I'm concerned about clots too, but the benefits far outweigh the risks for me. It's always a trade-off with RA meds, unfortunately. Take care of yourself.

March 2, 2020
A myRAteam Member

I think I would exhaust my other options for us that’s a really risky question good luck

March 1, 2020
A myRAteam Member

I've been on Xeljanz XR and low dose prednisone (5 to 7.5mg) for 1.5 years now and it's the only med that significantly reduced the frequency and duration of my flares, as well as the severity. I've tried sulfasalazine, plaquenil, methotrexate, Enbrel, and Humira, all while simultaneously taking prednisone. None of them worked like Xeljanz.

March 4, 2020
A myRAteam Member

Hang in there

March 2, 2020
A myRAteam Member

I have been on Xeljanz for 2 weeks now. And I am amazed at the relief I am feeling!!! No side effects. And my blood work is the best it’s ever been. Still on the high side but has come down a lot.

March 1, 2020

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