Actemra twist

[Blackcatlover]

Just saw my rheumatologist today. I’m having some trouble with the veins on my right arm during my monthly IV treatments of Actemra. I had a left side mastectomy so I can only use my right arm for blood pressures, injections, blood draws and IVs. Veins are not holding up too well after all that’s been done. Looking into weekly Actemra injections that I can give myself. Wondering if there is a knack to this or if anyone has a some helpful info.

[SnazzyD]

If you have it subcutaneously you put it under the skin yourself rather than in the muscle or vein. You should be given full instructions to do this before you are sent off on your own. It’s basically, grab some flab (thigh, abdomen or arm) hold it at the right angle depending on the needle and go. You rotate the areas so you don’t do it in the same place over and over. The main thing is not to hesitate; just do it. It becomes harder if you go up to the brink and pull back, but you’ll soon become a pro.

[Blackcatlover in reply to SnazzyD]

Great reply! Thank you so much. Good advice! It’s like jumping in the ocean! Much harder if you hesitate!

[SheffieldJane]

I give myself injections in my thigh, just under the skin, using an epipen. It is painless and easy. A company deliver the drug every 4 weeks and I put it straight in the fridge. Happy to answer any detailed questions. I find it easier than the blood sugar, finger prick, to be honest. One click and watch the clear fluid go in as you count to 10. Unlike DadCue, I do not find that it burns. I was advised to take it out of the fridge 40 minutes before I administer it. I am the biggest wuss, if I can do it, anyone can.

[SheffieldJane]

My Rheumatology Nurse said the epipen costs the same as a syringe because I thought that too. I had an hour or so of training where the nurse watched me do it. I think I had an out of body experience and did it perfectly. My husband was there, he watches the drug go in, so I can stay upright.

[Blackcatlover]

Thank you all for the great advice! You take away all the fear! I know I can do this. You are all so wonderful. My first injection is August 31. ❤️💜💙

[Grammy80]

Fear not!!! I use the epipen type every week and I'd never done anything like that before. I don't feel a thing. The others that use it have all given you good advice, for sure! Honestly I don't even feel a tiny little prick or anything. I just hold onto that flesh and there is little purple bar on mine that comes down on the inside...but I don't see too well...so I just count to ten as Jane said.

I also put it on my Google calendar to send me an email each Monday for Tuesday...so I'll remember to switch legs. I you do wind up getting the syringe for some reason, it is just to be under the skin....I know you'll be able to do it. I was also told to leave it out of the fridge until it is room temperature.

Fingers crossed you get it soon and give your arm a rest. xo

[Blackcatlover in reply to Grammy80]

Thanks Grammy 80. I know I can do this. Have run out of options. I developed an infection after my mastectomy. Was in the hospital for a week on vancomycin by IV every eight hours. Did a number on my veins. Looking for ward to using my chubby little thighs for a change.❤️

[Grammy80 in reply to Blackcatlover]

You Betcha!! We're glad for flab~!!!!! 😏😏😏

[Rugger]

I use the pre-filled pens too and inject into my abdomen - plenty of flesh to pinch there! It is really easy and I hardly feel a thing. With all you've been through, this should be a walk in the park! Best wishes.

[MrsChips]

I have the weekly Actemra EpiPen injections. I haven't tried to give it to myself as my husband is very capable and does it for me. I have it every Thursday morning and Lloyds Pharmacy delivery it toy home address once per month. No problems whatsoever. Sounds a much better method than having IV infusions but I know nothing about the difference between who needs which method.

[scottygirl73]

I was on monthly infusion then lockdown,phone call from a pharmacy to say i was getting a delivery of Actemra but i would be shown by rheumy nurse how to administer it.Well i got a booklet with it that was my learning advice.Still not heard from Rheumy,no bloods been done for nearly five months.I am sure you will manage just fine.xx