Benepali injections and side effects getting worse

[Kelmcg]

I have been taking Benepali for 6 wks now. The first 2 wks I had no pain whilst injecting and no site reaction. For the past 4 wks each injection has got more painful and I have started to get a reaction on my skin where I inject. Whilst injecting this week it was so sore I almost pulled it out before it was fully injected!

I also suffer from bad sinus and this has got worse over time. It doesn’t help tHat I have a pretty bad cold right now either.

Has anyone else experienced this and what have you done to alleviate the situation?

Thanks

[Deniseelk]

Hi there, I have been injecting Benepali for exactly a year now! My tips.... remove from fridge probably a few hrs before.... I take mine out when I start to prep supper then inject after ( if it’s not fridge cold it’s meant to take some of the sting out). I never use the antiseptic wipes( these can cause injection site rashes).... I shower, wait and let my veins ( that can swell a little from the warmth of the water) calm back down so less chance of catching them. Was advised to use the wipes if I am injecting in a place where germs are ( like hospital). I choose to inject in my thigh ( i’m Fairly slim so no real “fat” in thighs or stomach but just pick thighs but I know lots prefer the stomach). I spend time checking the area for spots / bruises / veins then in a clear area inject.... grit my teeth but no delay and just think it’s only once a week! It is a grit your teeth few seconds for sure but try to be positive and think how lucky we are to be given this drug.... I can’t imagine how bad I would still be without it!!! Hoping you find a style that you can cope with and start seeing great improvements soon. I mark my improvements by things I can do again.... like tying shoelaces, using scissors, being able to write again, etc! Best of luck.

[Hidden]

If you are having injection site problems I would certainly tell your rheumatologist , particularly if red and sore.

Yes, the pen does nip a bit doesn't it. I was a bit surprised by it at first as methotrexate doesn't hurt at all! Anyway, do you sit or stand whilst injecting? I always inject in stomach and find that standing up seems to make injection less painful. Perhaps because stomach is a tiny bit more taught.

I also take pen out of fridge a good hour or so before. Actually, it gets warmed up a bit because I just lie it on my bed when heat blanket is on.

Interesting you mention sinus issues. I've had cracking sinus infection since being on it.

[lucymead in reply to Hidden]

Yes sinusitis can be a problem you should tell your Rheumy or HAH CHEMISTabout all the side effects they can help you sort things out.