Just thinking

[Hurtalot]

I might have to start the shots for rheumatoid arthritis . which one would be the best to help

[oldtimer]

Do you mean biologics?

Have a look at the NRAS treatment pages and it tells a bit more about them.

But the type offered will probably be limited to what your local provider offers and what they think will match your particular disease pattern.

[Hurtalot in reply to oldtimer]

Thank you

[AgedCrone]

The only people who can recommend which medication you should take are your rheumatology team.

Unfortunately it's an inexact science & what works wonders for one person can be no help to another. You will read here how one drug is THE ONE, for some & a nightmare for another.

But do remember you might have to take one or two drugs before you find the one that is right for you.

If you mean Biologics they are much more specific & your rheumatologist will look at your previous medical history before suggesting which one to recommend.

Good luck...hope you find your magic pill.

AC

[nomoreheels]

That's really a question for your Rheumy team I'm afraid Hurtalot . Also, the guidelines are different in the US to the UK, here generally we need to have tried at least 2 DMARDS, one being methotrexate (unless there's a reason not to be) , before we can be considered for anti-TNF's/Biologics. The guidlines are also that we need to have a DAS score of 5.1 or over on two occasions a month apart because they are funded by the NHS, not through insurance, so funding needs to be applied for. So unfortunately it's not really a question we can give a proper answer to.

Have you tried MTX injections, they are usually better tolerated. I see you've tried leflunomide which here isn't generally one of the first DMARDs tried, usually one or other of MTX, hydroxychloroquine or sulfasalazine are prescribed initially. Maybe they're not suitable for you & your RD is at the stage biologics are your only option. I hope one of our other US members can help more, or better still you can talk through your choices with your Rheumy as some anti-TNF's/Biologics are better at targetting specific RD problems. Maybe once you have an idea what's being offered you could ask here again for experiences of your choices. Good luck & I hope whichever you decide on is the one.

[Hurtalot in reply to nomoreheels]

I have tried mtx. Now on arava. But it's not working. Took the others and still no luck. So my rheumatologist said next step is the shots

[Hidden]

And keep in mind that every body is different, and every solution will be different as well. Unfortunately, some it is trial and error, but most of them do work as intended.

[AgedCrone in reply to Hidden]

Yes Caeryl Biologics are very exact....I don't know about Biologic injections but infusions are especially Designated for each patient.

I have recently had my first two infusions & before the infusion was started the bag is checked by two senior sisters, plus the patient's details are checked against the contents written on the labels....both by the clinical staff & the patient is asked to confirm it is all correct.

I've had cancer in the past & the checks carried out for Biologic infusions for RA are just..if not more...as rigorous.

[Hidden in reply to AgedCrone]

Nice - I think healthcare has gotten to that a lot across the board. I've had them do the same thing recently before drawing my blood, or taking an x-ray. It's a great thing if you ask me...

[AgedCrone in reply to Hidden]

Yes....especially when you read how a little carelessness can cause life long problems.....no matter how much money is given in compensation nothing will ever be the same for some people.

AC

[Hidden in reply to AgedCrone]

Yeah - Wrong arm or leg amputated, wrong medication and patient died... The consequences can be massive

[AgedCrone in reply to Hidden]

Mind you sometimes I'd pay to have my arm amputated....then the pain goes away & I thank God for pain killers that work!