Rash after injecting Orencia

[Love2camp]

Over the past 2 weeks I've injected Orencia on a Friday, my forearms have started to itch on a Saturday and by Sunday evening they've been a red swollen mess. I also noticed my eyes and face looked swollen and my lips felt chapped and peeled.

I used antihistamine tablets, steroid cream and emollient cream, which helped and contacted my GP by e-consult and included pictures. He said keep using the cream etc, speak to rheumatology and made an appointment to see me in person on Thursday.

When I spoke to rheumatology they said as I've been on the drug for 2yrs it's doubtful that it's an allergy but to stop my injections for 2 weeks to see what happens. I'm now scared to use the drug again as I'm worried that the reaction will be worse next time.

I'm wondering if anyone else has had this happen? I've been on treatment for 13 yrs so have tried a few drugs along the way. x

[medway-lady]

Abatercept did this to me or it looked like that but it was almost straight after the first injection which I recall is Orencia. Drug induced Eczema was the diagnosis and it was stopped. But I've had the same recently with Trimethoprine an antibiotic so it might not be the actual medication but its delivery medium. I dont know but could be worth asking if the formula has changed or if its another medication.

[Love2camp in reply to medway-lady]

Ahh thanks for that advice medway-lady. You could be right about the formula as coincidentally both my last 2 injections which I've reacted to have come from a new box. I think I'll contact Lloyds pharmacy for advice as it could be linked.

[Rainyda]

I'm not sure?? I've been on Orencia for 2 yrs, I got some swelling/edema. But in the past few months I have flare-ups more often. In Nov., was given low dose prednisone, which I find helped a bit, but caused more swelling. I also take hydroxy daily. I'm flared up at the time. I had rash on my right leg, was given steroid cream which caused more rash. Next rheumy visit is in two weeks, I will mention the above to her, for her diagnostic opinions. And see what she advises. Sorry I don't have any positive info., but wish you all the best. 💕

[Love2camp in reply to Rainyda]

I've found with my other drugs that intolerance builds up over time and symptoms show up in different ways. Nausea, pain, rash, headaches, fatigue etc. I had constant urine infections on my last drug and they cleared up once off it. We have to weigh up the risks vs benefits and ask to try something new if it's intolerable. Then it's a waiting game to see what glorious new side effects come next!I hope you can get to the bottom of what's causing your problems. x

[Rainyda]

👍💕