Another step towards anti-tnfs.

[Dogrose]

I had a hospital visit with the rheumy nurse yesterday, I wasn't sure at all what was going to happen so started inventing all sorts of harrowing scenarios! In the end it was just an info gathering session for both of us. There were forms with lots of questions about family health and health history and double checks to make sure I had had the right tests. These included: Two visits to the rheumatologist four weeks apart to confirm my RA was still active; tests for TB; other blood tests (always more and more blood tests LOL, I'll end up drained dry at this rate!) Then the serious info about dangers and infection protocols and carrying a card with me at all times.

Then I was asked which drug I wanted to take. This surprised me. I said I thought they would choose which one was the most appropriate, I hadn't done a huge amount of research on individual drugs. I chose Humira because it seems to be the one most people take and my Rheumatologist mentioned it during our last consultation.

The pen injectors for anti-tnfs are huge and very technical looking, not like the ones my mother uses for insulin! The nurse showed me some dummy ones. I was read the riot act about caring for them properly when they are delivered, as they are very expensive. I was given an introduction pack with a CD rom too.

Now everything has to go off for approval and I will be contacted by the company that deals with Humira (anti-tnfs appear to be distributed privately, you can't just go down to Boots with a prescription).

Unfortunately the timing of when I can expect to hear from the company coincides with us moving house when we will be without a home phone for a short while.

Check back soon for the next exciting instalment!

[shazbat]

Hi the company that delivers the drugs are really goodl. They arrange to come out and see you to show you how to inject they show you how to store them. You are contacted weeks in advance of your delivery to ensure the date is convenient. And if you ever need to ask a question about the drug they will get a Pharmacist to phone you. I chose to use the needle rather than the pen injectors as the majority of patients on the drugs voted for the needle rather than the pen injectors, as they said the pens are actually more painful. The needles are tiny and its really easy. Humira is good but may have to be topped up with methrox something I wanted to avoid after taking this drug for 4 years. I did have Humira for 12 months but it was not strong enough on its own. So i now have the newer drug Cimzia which I have to say has been great and is strong enough to be used on its own. Whichever one you chose the Anti TNFs are far superior to the previous drugs and have far fewer side effects. The only side effect i had was sinusitis which I keep at bay with steroid nasal spray. Anyway Good luck.

Sharon

[riccarton]

Hope the approval goes OK that is the really difficult part. My nurse trained me up on how to use the pen, just one session. I took my husband with me for support which proved handy as he has had to do two lots for me when my hand has been out of action.

As Sharon has said the company that distribute Humira are really good and accomodating about delivery dates.

I had a new kitchen fitted last year and had the fridge wired seperately so it won't trip out. The builders suggested it as I was a bit of a pain making sure the power was never switched off on the fridge.

Humira has been a wonder drug for me. Now just trying to reduce the Methotrexate.

Good Luck

[Hidden]

Although my ant-tnf is Embrel, I agree with what's been said and the treatment delivery is excellant. I was due to have a phone call whilst on holiday so on the phone call before I mentioned that I would be away so we set a definite date for the first delivery after my holiday. It arrived as requested. They are also helpful for any letters that you need to carry whilst away as well. Good Luck.

[donnell62]

hi dogrose, im 2 weeks ahead of you and awaiting my 2nd injection today. can i just say im amazed at the difference in the way i feel, ive gone from staying in bed all day..unable to walk, to taking little walks around my flat, keep positive and hopefully you will feel the same, gentle hug, Tee, xx

[2plus2]

Hi dogrose, I'm five weeks in on emberel. Have had no problems with delivery or storage and everyone I have spoken to have been very helpful. I have it delivered to work as this is the easiest option for me. My husband watched the first injection and now the kids have seen how easy it is they want to have a go! Good luck hope it all goes to plan. Lou

[Dogrose]

Thanks everyone, I do hope it works well, I'm even allowing myself to plan my future a little instead of it being on hold! XXX

I suppose I will have to clean my fridge out more often too