Change of medication

[GrannyCarson]

RA diagnosis December 2020.Due to lockdown wasn't put on methotrexate till March 2021.Felt great but it caused scarring on my liver so had to stop methotrexate January 2022.Waited till August to start Filgotinib but this didn't help me.Have waited since November 2022 for Etanercept.Feel really awful painful ankles,wrists,thumbs.Why does it take so long for NHS to change medication?So tired all the time

[FamilyHistorian]

RA drugs are powerful and take time to act not only that many have to be monitored. About 30 years ago one of my drugs suddenly stopped working and put me in hospital for six weeks while I was introduced to MTX but that works for me. One of the side effects is that it can cause pulmonary fibrosis.

Check and see if your rheumatologist has a help desk. We have one In Worcestershire operating Mon - Fri 9x5. Generally they get back to you within a working day and if they can’t help they can usual arrange for you to speak or see a rheumatologist