Xeljanz / Tofacitinib : Doctor just switched me to... - NRAS

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Xeljanz / Tofacitinib

SassyRA profile image
12 Replies

Doctor just switched me to Xeljanz I’m supposed to start Saturday & I’m feeling anxious. I was on Leflunomide / Arava since October but I have been flaring to frequently so doctor thought it was best to switch to a biologic. On the Leflunomide I also noticed I lost a lot of hair.

I was very nervous about being able to give myself the Humira shot so that’s why we didn’t go with that.

Just wanted some feedback on the Xeljanz I’m supposed to start Saturday

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SassyRA profile image
SassyRA
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12 Replies
allanah profile image
allanah

Great Sassy! Biologics can really help. Fingers crossed!!

Matilda_1922 profile image
Matilda_1922

I'm sorry I can't give you any advice because xeljanx has only been for a short. I really hope this works for you.

summer32 profile image
summer32

I would kill for a biological treatment, had a bad flare Nov, paid for a private appointment desperate to carry on working had a depot shot, 225 pounds and 75.00 for the steroid injection, couldn't afford another, went to gp after re flare 2 weeks ago tried oral steroids, didn't touch it, had Time of sick still off gp appointment Mon gp gave me a steroid shot, had tried hydroxy between Nov and Feb had to come of this, had problems with methotrexate and sulphasazaline, my health wrecked by this disease, my pharmacy contract with Lloyds has an end date of March 24, I paid privately in Nov despite the cost.

Gnarli profile image
Gnarli in reply to summer32

I can't 'like' this. I just wanted to offer sympathy and sincerely wish you better. Hugs

J

SassyRA profile image
SassyRA in reply to summer32

Oh no so sorry to hear this. I’m in the US & my rheumatologist told me that the pharmaceutical companies assist with payments. During my flares they increase my prednisone to 20mg but I’m taking 5mg daily because Leflunomide wasn’t working well. I have been on the steroids to long

oldtimer profile image
oldtimer

My sister (lives in France) has been on this for about six years now. Doing really well.

Several other people on this forum have recently started this in the UK, as it's now approved for use in the UK. Put it in the search box and their comments will come up for you.

Gnarli profile image
Gnarli

I'm not on Xeljanz but wish I was. Lovely rheumy said last time that I get too many infections to risk a biologic which is a pity as I've heard glowing reports. Wishing you all the very best.

J

Arienne profile image
Arienne

I started Xeljanz about a year ago. It has been amazing. I’ve had regular severe flares for several years. Neither Humira or Cimzia stopped them. Xeljanz has them under control

ThePainPrincess profile image
ThePainPrincess in reply to Arienne

That's wonderful. Any side effects? Is it expensive? Thanks

Arienne profile image
Arienne

With my insurance, I pay $30 a month. I've had some minor tummy trouble and some low grade fevers, both of which I think are side effects (had to tell exactly because I'm on several drugs). Those are minor compared to the symptoms it is relieving.

ThePainPrincess profile image
ThePainPrincess

Thank you! So happy for you! I am trying LDN. Should get it today or tomorrow. Take care

EdieB profile image
EdieB

I am being changed from leflunomide to methotrexate injection. I am very nervous about that. The leflunomide didn’t work. I’m not nervous about injecting myself just about the side effects. Will try for 90 days and see what happens. I am going to write the name of your medicine down and suggest out to my Dr. If the methotrexate isn’t good for me. Good luck with everything!

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