ESR blood levels.: I’ve been on leflunomide... - Arthritis Action

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ESR blood levels.

cba84 profile image
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I’ve been on leflunomide for 6 months now, initially it was fantastic and there was a drastic reduction in my esr levels. After a couple of months they increased again and I was in more pain. The tablet dose was doubled a couple of months back but my ESR levels are still at 43, anyone experienced similar and if so was there a solution. Thanks in advance.

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Mandypandy1969 profile image
Mandypandy1969

My esr has been up to 97 but never been on medication for it. Mine is down to the 40's now but pain no different.

Deniseelk profile image
Deniseelk

I am not on that medication myself but it indicates that it is either not holding the disease OR you have something else going on, maybe an infection and you are having a flare. Either way I would go back to your Rheumatologist to discuss it. Maybe steroids to dampen the inflammation / pain or review of medication? Not worth suffering.

The inflammation that is causing the rise in your ESR might not be anything to do with your RA.

"Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

What is an erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)?

An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a type of blood test that measures how quickly erythrocytes (red blood cells) settle at the bottom of a test tube that contains a blood sample. Normally, red blood cells settle relatively slowly. A faster-than-normal rate may indicate inflammation in the body. Inflammation is part of your immune response system. It can be a reaction to an infection or injury. Inflammation may also be a sign of a chronic disease, an immune disorder, or other medical condition."

medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/e...

Bonnie3 profile image
Bonnie3

I was on leflunomide for about 2 years, then started having mild flare ups again. After seeing my rheumatoid doctor, I was told the leflunomide medication was no longer working for me, and should try something else. I was prescribed Amgevita ( adalimumab), which i had a reaction to so had to stop that too. I am now waiting to speak with nurse as to what to try next.

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