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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I have been struggling with finding a medication that works for me-wondering what the rest of you have done?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Detroit, MI

Methotrexate didn’t work for me, Arava I took a heavy toll on my liver, and I had an allergic reaction to Plaquenil.

November 4, 2025 (edited)
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A myRAteam Member

I am currently on Enbrel and I also have a vagus nerve stimulator, which is now FDA approved. Both of these treatments have been a huge game changer for me!
The VNS did require surgery, and I have to make sure I charge it weekly, but it has been vital to my recovery.
If you are interested in learning more about the VNS, lookup Setpoint Medical Reset RA. It will tell you about the data that was collected, so if you decide to speak with your rheumatologist about it, you'll have some idea about what it is that you want to at least ask about.

November 5, 2025
myRAteam

What have others done when first-line medications haven't worked for their rheumatoid arthritis?

Finding the right medication for RA can be really challenging, and you're definitely not alone in cycling through different treatments. Many myRAteam members have experienced similar struggles with medications not working or Show Full Answer

What have others done when first-line medications haven't worked for their rheumatoid arthritis?

Finding the right medication for RA can be really challenging, and you're definitely not alone in cycling through different treatments. Many myRAteam members have experienced similar struggles with medications not working or causing side effects.

When traditional DMARDs like methotrexate, Arava, and Plaquenil don't work out, rheumatologists often consider other options:

- Biologic medications - These target specific parts of the immune system and are often prescribed when traditional DMARDs aren't effective or cause serious side effects
- Combination therapy - Sometimes adding another medication to work alongside a DMARD can improve results
- Dose adjustments - Your doctor might try different dosing strategies
- Alternative traditional DMARDs - There are other options beyond the ones you've tried

It's important to work closely with your rheumatologist about what you've experienced. They can help determine the safest next steps given your liver concerns and allergic reaction history.

One myRAteam member shared that even when medications only work for about a year before plateauing or causing toxicity issues, they consider that a success. The key is staying in communication with your doctor about what's working and what isn't.

November 4, 2025
A myRAteam Member

Taking Sulfasalazine, Leuflonomide, and have Orencia infusion every 4 weeks which is helping. Also take 4mg Folic Acid to prevent side effects. Stopped taking weekly Methotrexate injections that weren't helping and tried Simponi Aria infusions which didn't help. Since starting Orencia infusions I'm having less chronic flareups and haven't need Prednisone for almost 2 months.

November 17, 2025
A myRAteam Member

My hair became rather thin on methotrexate as well. I’m glad to say it’s grown back at this point. I’m hoping for a biologic this Thursday.

November 5, 2025
A myRAteam Member

Methotrexate caused my hair to fall out and didn't help me to feel better. The best drug for me was Embrel. I am now on Cimzia. Only two months in. God bless you!

November 5, 2025

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Gloucestershire
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