Transitioning from methotrexate to biologics can be a significant change in your treatment plan. Here are a few things you might want to consider:
1. Biologics can be very effective in reducing disease activity in moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. However, it's important to assess risk factors before beginning Show Full Answer
Transitioning from methotrexate to biologics can be a significant change in your treatment plan. Here are a few things you might want to consider:
1. Biologics can be very effective in reducing disease activity in moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. However, it's important to assess risk factors before beginning biologic treatment.
2. Biologics are often used in combination with methotrexate, but if methotrexate hasn't provided adequate relief, biologics can be used alone.
3. Biologic drugs often take time to start taking effect. Some people feel better after their first treatment, but more commonly, it can take a few weeks or months for the initial response.
4. Common side effects for biologics include reactions at the site of injection, headache, and nausea. If you have a sign of a serious infection, report it immediately to your rheumatologist and health care team.
5. It's important to carefully adhere to the schedule required for the particular biologic drug you are taking.
6. Talk to your doctor and find out if your biologic treatment allows you any choice in your treatment schedule. Be sure you thoroughly understand your treatment plan.
Remember, everyone's experience with biologics can be different, so it's important to maintain open communication with your healthcare team throughout the process.
December 17, 2023