Does anyone on here have infusion therapy ?

[Sueh121268]

Hi there I was diagnosed around 4 yes ago, I've been on numerous meds but just methotrexate and embrel for the last year but just lately I keep having flares, the last was only 6 wks ago and now I'm having another. My specialist wants me to have the infusion therapy and is arranging an appointment with the biologics nurse. I've never heard of it and have never spoken to anyone who has this type of medication anyone out there that can help ??? Thanks

[helixhelix]

There are some of the biologic drugs (ie drugs a bit like Enbrel) that are given by a intravenous drip called an infusion. The main one is called Rituximab which is I think only given by infusion. If you use the search box top right you’ll find posts about it as quite a few people on here use it. There are others like Abatacept/Orencia which can be given by injection or infusion.

Each of the drugs targets a slightly different part of the immune system, so it’s very individual which will help you and which won’t. But they are the same broad type of biologic drug so ones that have been created from living cell material. It’s just the method of delivery varies.

[Pulfs]

I've been having retuximab infusions for over 6yrs now . It's given every 6mths over 2 infusions with a week in between each . It's done through a drip and canular with steroid and antihistamine also administered. I'm usually at my local hospital for about 7hrs so take a packed lunch and my kindle to keep me occupied.

It's working really we for me and my body tells me when I'm due for next round as I get very fatigued.

Hope you get on ok if offered it xx

[Lynniechinny in reply to Pulfs]

Well that’s good to hear, I’m having my very first Rituximab this coming Wednesday, feeling a bit anxious!

Been diagnosed for just over 2 years now, tried Methotrexate tabs & self injections, but side effects were horrendous, then went on to Lefluomide, that didn’t work at al, been on Sulfasalazine since January but not keeping RA under control, get constant flares, so next step is Rituximab infusion.

Fingers crossed.

[SufferingOnHumira]

I infused Remicade every three months for seven years and then Actemra every month for the next seven years. I LOVE biologics and they were very effective in controlling my RA. They eventually run their course and you will have to change. I have literally lived a pain free life for the past 14 years. My DR is now trying Humira and I hate the side effects and it isn’t nearly as effective. I prefer biologic infusions over anything else.

[dozzer15]

Hi I've been having Rituximab infusions every six months for a few years now and it works well for me. I still take methotrexate but I'm going to ask if I can reduce the dose when I see my rheumy next week. It sounds scary at first but it's fine. I hope you get on ok if that's what you choose x

[beeckey]

I had a few infusions of Rituximab but it did not work for me.I was then put on Tocilizumab infusions for a few years given at the hospital monthly was then given the choice of doing injections instead taken weekly which i do now hope it works for you.

[Carol41]

Hi I've had a few steroid infusion session - Fantastic

[GranAmie]

Yr bio nurse will give u the detail. I had my first set of infusions [1 all day, and 2nd 10 days later for abt 5 hrs] last July - and am still doing ok! I was offered a repeat in March [and refused] but end June has now been ok'd. RTX [rituximab biosimilar called truximab] has wrked well 4me. had major pains in hands /wrists but it turned out 2be severe osteo to add to the RA [?} and hi-strength glucosamine - chondroitin - vit C has calmed that down nicely. Hope this helps; i was v v nervous but it has worked wll 4me. xx

[GranAmie]

PS!! I also take 50% -agreed by them - of sulfasalazine.

[dwsurquhart]

I am on tocilizumab infusion every 4 weeks. Works like a charm and I do not have to stick myself daily, weekly or biweekly.

Once a month is enough for me. This is the only drug I am on now. It keeps all my symptoms at bay and has now for the 2.5 years.