Blood tests

[Heathersmum69]

I went to see my Dr about my pain with my R.A,and I asked him whether I need to have blood tests whilst on Humeria?

Can someone put me straight before I call my specialist nurse.

Thanks,

Jane 💐🌸

[farm123]

It can depend on what other drugs you are on. When I was on Humira alone it was only done at rheumy clinic visits (around 3 monthly). Often it is the DMARD's that need more frequent regular blood monitoring. Farm

[Debbiegod1]

I'm on humira and have to get bloods done 4 weekly

[helixhelix in reply to Debbiegod1]

That seems a lot - have you only been taking it for a few months?

Generally it seems that when you start a biologic you get tests monthly to start - partly to check that it's having a positive effect on controlling the disease as well as making sure that the rest of you is working ok. Then after 6 months or so the frequency changes so you get basic tests every 3 to 6 months or so, and more thorough work up once a year.

But as Farm says if you're also on other drugs it could stay as a monthly or 8 weekly requirement.

[Debbiegod1]

No been on it 14 month ,and have routine bloods every month,

[Scottishlad]

If you are on methotrexate you will still need regular blood tests. Check with the nurse.

[DC56]

Hi I'm still having monthly bloods been on Humira since Jan , I think you should still be having them to it the only way they can tell how well it's working your , bloods give the Dr's a better idea how the Meds suit you X hope this helps Dawn

[Hidden]

As others have said, it depends on your other medications and some of it is your rheum's discretion. When I was on Humira, MTX and leflunomide, they insisted on 4 weekly bloods. Now, I've been taken off the lef, they've agreed I can do 6-8 weeks but I've been on MTX for 5 years with very few issues, so they feel confident. Plus, I work 22 miles from home, so it's not always easy getting the actual bloods and they work with that.

[Wpspahn]

Hello...Not only are they checking how effective the medicine is working. They're also checking to make sure that your liver and kidney functions are within normal limits... as well as your blood count and such. It gives the doctors an overview of how the body is reacting to everything in general and gives them something to refer to and monitor each time the lips are drawn. Have a great day everyone!

[Heathersmum69]

Thank you everyone that replied.

Jane xx