humira or Hydroxychloroquine

[Timboo]

hi I’ve recently increased to 25mg of methotrexate took for 6 weeks and its sill not working. The nurse mentioned adding hydroxychloroquine or switching to humira, i don't like the side effects list of either 🤦‍♀️ eye problems or cancer. Any advice would be appreciated.

[HeadInASpin]

hi Timboo. The potential side effects of all RA drugs are very scary but it was pointed out to me that they are just that…potential. What suits one person may not suit the next and frustratingly it is trial and error for us all. My husband made a good point when he said that we are monitored through blood tests etc on a regular basis so issues can be picked up straight away. The general public doesn’t get this so could be living with some nasty illness for a long time before symptoms make them go to the doctor. I’m trying my second DMARD and have to phone in my blood pressure and have blood tests every two weeks at the moment. I’m tolerating it well so far. I just hope it brings me some relief.

No one here can advise you on what to take but most people agree that without medication life is pretty miserable. Whatever you decide to take, make sure you keep up with the monitoring that’s put in place. Good luck, hope you feel better soon.

[Salamanca21]

I've been on hydroxychloeoauine for 16 years and only now am having checks for a small cataract due to ageing. I am 62. Benepali, a biosimilar of Humira, has changed my life. So go ahead. Any treatment is risky, but the benefits are worth it.

[oldtimer2]

It's usual to try on a second DMARD (Disease Modifying Anti-arthritis Drug) like hydroxychloroquine before going onto a biologic like Humira. have a look at the treatment pages on the NRAS website.

I was on hydrochloroquine for many years with good control (and no eye problems). Then came off it (consultant said I didn't need any more, not a good decision in view of massive later flare(s).