I' m on a clinical trial.

[Grumpy_Al]

I have had RA for 7 years now and have tried various different med over the years. I'm now on methotrexate which I inject weekly. A couple of months ago, I saw my RA consultant and he asked if I would be interested in taking part in a trail to see if they could find the optimum treatment for people with my level of the condition. I am classed as intermediate, not in remission and not advanced. I didn't know what level of treatment I would receive as this would be decided by random.

I was selected for intensive treatment, this means that I have to see the researchers once a month and have my meds tweaked every time. So far, my methotrexate has been increased for 15 to 20 mg weekly but as I have only had two doses so far, it is too early to tell if it has had any effect. The trail lasts for a year so hopefully I will see some improvements in the coming months.

To give the trail the best chance of working , I also have given up drinking for the duration and as a Scotsman, that's quite a commitment.

I'll keep everyone up to date on how things progress.

Grumpy Al.

[lifeboatann58]

Hya Al. I'm on Methotrexate 20mg. I'm a Scotswoman and have also given up drink

They say it takes upto 12 weeks for the Methotrexate to start working. I'm on week 9 and I'm seeing a difference. Just getting a bit upset that I'm not going to be able to drink for my 60th. But I have to think of my health. Really want to get back to work.

Hopefully this trial works for you, and then it will be worth the sacrifice of the alcohol. X

[EmmaS-NRAS NRAS]

Dear Grumpy_Al

Great news that you have been offered a trial, it sounds very much like the TITRATE trial which is currently being undertaken by 18 different hospitals. We look forward to finding out how you get on with the intensive treatment and hope that it leads to improvement for you very soon.

If anyone wants to read more about the trail, there is information on the NRAS website here: nras.org.uk/titrate-trial

Best of luck,

EmmaS-NRAS

[Grumpy_Al in reply to EmmaS-NRAS]

Emma, it is the TITRATE trail. Thanks for the link, I'll check it out.

Al.

[stbernhard]

Good luck Grumpy, Congratulations for going for a trial and please keep us up to date. Thank you.

[Hidden]

Goodmorning Grumpy!!! Congratulations for being choosen for the trial. Please keep posting.

Take care

Sue