LOOKING DOWN A LONG TUNNEL

[wilkybob]

I have now had no treatment for the nearly 12 months now. I am now waiting to have my first infusion of RITUXIMAB. I am not looking forward to this in one way as I am worried about the side affects.

[bub124]

Hi Wilkybob, I've been on anti-TNF for nearly 7 years and haven't really had any major side effects so try not to worry too much. Try looking at it that it can't make you feel worse than I'm sure you already do and if it doesn't work, you can always come off it. Nothing ventured nothing gained as they say...

xx

[Zeen]

Hi, I have tried rtx, felt the same as you. Actually no problems what so ever, you are monitered extremely well throughout the whole proceedure. Just be prepared for a very l o n g ..... day!!

[Tillytop]

Hello Wilkybob

I was nervous when I started Ritux too, having been allergic to two of the other biologics previously. But I have been absolutely fine on Ritux and it is working really well for me! I had my first set of infusions a year ago now and, even though my second set (due after six months) have been postponed due to other health problems It has only started to wear off properly in the last couple of months. At the hospital recently I met a lady who was going a year between Ritux infusions without any problems at all so hopefully the same will be true for you. As Zeen says you will be very well looked after on infusion day and the steroid infusion you will be given alongside the Ritux will hopefully give you some pretty immediate joint relief. Infusion day can be very long though so you need to be prepared - I was at the hospital about 9 or so hours each time. Ritux is not quick to work (I was told it may take more than 6 months before I knew whether it was going to help me) but as I said just now, the steroid infusions will hopefully help you with the joints in the meatime.

Good luck!

Tillyx

[dmc12]

Hi,

I started on ritux about two weeks ago and although its too early to tell if its going to work I am feeling fine on it other then mouth ulcers. Good luck

[wilkybob]

Thank you all for your input this has made me feel a bit more confident about having the infusion. thank you again.

[141960]

Hi there, yes I feel that way too! But I guess its better than not being mobile? If this is what they decide on for me I will let you know how it goes! Take care.