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Uncertain about medication path.
First diagnosed PMR but once I finally got to a Rheumatologist he said RA. I didn't tolerate Methotrexate so he suggested Orencia infusions. I seem to be tolerating it but my concern is how long can I expect to need this? Also, the cost is pretty high even with some coverage. I tried to ask about it and he got kind of defensive and said I could go back on Prednisone. which I am still taking 9mg and tapering 1mg per month.
Question, is there someone out here who is on Orencia? How long are you excepted to take this? Is Orencia really better than Prednisone. I guess I dislike the idea of infusions long term. Now I am alittle confused of the right path .
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Look into Kevzara another biologic that treats RA.
I’m on Medicare and my RX plan covers after deductible.
Also Kevzara has some $$$ help, don’t know details
Kevzara takes upto 3 months to kick in.
Worth it to me 👍
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3 ReactionsThere is an at home self injection pen that is used once you have responded
to IVs of abatacept. There are other treatments available. Therapy is usually long term but depending on your age remission is possible. Insurance dictates
cost and sometimes for Medicare beneficiaries in clinic infusions may be less
costly than at home route!
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3 Reactions@tweetypie13
Thanks for your input.
I will check it out.
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2 Reactions@tweetypie13
I'm on kevzara too, but for PMR. My copay is covered by the drug company's copay card.
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1 ReactionHello. Orencia was an effective drug for me and I was on it for several years. Once you are diagnosed with RA and start the symptoms and the disease becomes active all damage in your joints will be permanent!! Plus I don’t want to live in pain all my life. Have you had a bad flare yet? I have and the pain is excruciating. So I take my meds to keep from crippling and to live a life as comfortable as possible. That’s my experience with Orencia. I only got off of it when it stopped working for me. Hope this helps in some way.
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3 Reactions@adlttl123
Yes, it's helpful to hear others experiences. I am still in early stages of diagnosis and treatment. I am still just trying to find my way to live a more functional life.
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3 Reactions@adlttl123
To answer your question, have I had a bad flare? No, I am still just trying to find a medication I can tolerate. I seem to be tolerating Orencia but dislike having to be tied to infusions. I know there is a self administered injection once a week available. I guess right now I am muddleing through but seem ok for now.
Question, did you go on an anti-inflammatory diet?
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1 ReactionNo I have never gone on an anti-inflammatory diet. I do try to eat fairly healthy.
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1 ReactionIn my walk with RA and meds I’ve been on several medications and I have NEVER BEEN ON A MEDICATION THAT TOOK 3 MONTHS TO KICK IN! And I would NEVER consider it. It’s been my experience that it is not necessary!!
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1 Reaction@adlttl123 I was diagnosed in January and put on Plaquenil. I was told it might take up to 6 mths to help my joint pain. It has done nothing...I had trouble with nausea and diarrhea with it throughout and my rheumatologist said if I can't tolerate it I would never be able to tolerate methotrexate, which was so disheartening. I see her this week and have no idea what will be next. I also have osteoarthritis and she says my pain is likely that and not RA...I'm so confused. I can't take any NSAIDS due to kidney issues so no pain meds except tylenol arthritis which does nothing. I'm an active person who works out daily and have all my life. I'm battling through it all but so disheartened by the feeling that there is nothing out there to help me. Do I insist on trying methotrexate despite her negativity towards it? ugh...
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