Has anyone found help for the flu like aches?

[Habbeshaw]

I ache like the flu most days now anyone for help with that? Taking Pred and now suppose to start leflunomide. This scares me to start this.

[Hidden]

Sorry to hear that, I don't take leflunomide so no help there I'm afraid, all these drugs scare me but so do the effects of the disease: rock and a hard place! Have you just been diagnosed or in flare because I felt like that at start, 6 months ago: that definitely improves, fatigue makes you feel so low and useless. Really good luck with meds.

[helixhelix]

The only thing that has helped the aches are the disease modifying drugs, like Leflunomide. Sorry, but flu aches are a sign that your disease is active and needs to be brought under control. Prednisone will mask problems, but is not a long term solution (unless absolutely no other option).

Yes the drugs sound scary, but the disease is much more scary if you let it get it's own way.

[Graceusha1 in reply to helixhelix]

Very helpful answer to me. Thanks!!!

[medway-lady]

I take LEF i(over 3 years) it works extremely well for me and be patient it does not work fast. All meds have side efffects and LEF is no different, just remember that on average 8 people die each year from taking asprin. Don't read the PIL either !

[SnooW]

I started Leflunomide last October. It can take up to 3 months to be effective. I'm still waiting for full effect at 4 months down the line, but everyone is different. It is easy to take, one tablet a day, I started on 10mg for a month, and now on 20mg. You need a good drink of water with it. I take mine between my dinner and my pud too! Don't ask why, it just happened that way, lol! Anyhow, no nasty side effects such as the diarrhoea that some people experience, but that might be because they are put on full dose straight off. It's best to start on the lower dose. Your steroids will probably take away the flu like symptoms, but they will likely return once you have reduced and stopped them. Give the Leflunomide a try - hopefully it will be the one that works for you! If you have any worries or questions about it, you can always contact your rheumy nurse or rheumatologist's secretary for advice and reassurance. Good luck!

[Ruth12345]

As well as my dmards im on paracetamol & dihydrocodeine 2 of each 4 times a day. Rheumy says for now keep taking them as it helps with aches and pains, but as said above it is just masking things but it really does help to function at a better level. Have also had steroids on and off which have helped. This has worked for about a year now...... this info correct up until i got a cold now aching etc, but not as bad as when first diagnosed. Hope you soon find something that works for you.

[Nettac]

Sorry to hear you feel rubbish. I felt just awful for three years until I found a drug that works. It's an awful feeling. I don't feel like death run over now I'm on methotrexate. I think it's just a matter of finding something that works for you.

[Graceusha1]

I am on leflunomide now. I know what you mean by flu like aches. Got them. Not everyday,worse in morning. I take extra strength Tylenol. Seem to get better as day goes on

All the best! Ushagrace

[Grumpyfell]

I have had RA for ten years now. As I had side effects with Methotrexate and Sulphasalazine I have been on Leflunamide for most of that time, plus a small dose of Prednisolone. My condition is well controlled (in fact I have no flare-ups now) and I am not aware of any side effects. I hope this helps and that you keep well on your medication.

[Graceusha1 in reply to Grumpyfell]

Hi! Same meds as you. Got relief from addition of pres. Haven't been on leflunomide long

Worried about pres use tho. Isn't it very strong??? Hugs, Ushagrace