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DiscussionUlcerative Colitis questions: Confused and frustrated
Digestive Health | Last Active: May 29 4:10pm | Replies (22)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "I also live in central NJ. Red Bank area. My drs are in NYC , looking..."
Of course! Since this posting, much has happened! I developed antibodies to the Entyvio and was switched to Stelara, which did NOT do anything for me. I had 16 months of pure hell, flaring, 5 hospitalizations, lots of prednisone (both oral and IV) and finally, a higher dose of Remicade (infliximab) infusions (10 mg/kg) every 4 weeks got me back into remission. Once again my brilliant GI doc had to battle my insurance company to get authorization for the higher dose, as I was barely 100 pounds. While waiting, I had scheduled a proctocolectomy and was able to cancel that less than 2 weeks before it was to happen. The colorectal surgeon is at the same hospital. I have been in remission over 2 years and get the Remicade infusions every 6 weeks now. My GI doc does therapeutic drug monitoring to test inflammation markers, trough levels and antibody titers every few months to make sure the levels are adequate and that I have not developed antibodies. I am blessed to have this brilliant caring doctor! His name is Anil Balani, MD and he is with Capital Health. Good luck to you!!