Hi @dontknowitall53! I had the same problem three years ago. Methotrexate and prednisone were no longer working for my RA/AS after ten years. My doctor suggested trying biologicals. I was nervous at first about the potential side effects but I decided to give it a go since my previous treatment was not effective. I am glad I did. I have been so much better with my new treatment. I got to realize methotrexate and prednisone are very harsh medications that require monthly lab work. I had all sorts of problems associated with these two meds: headaches, fatigue, constant bloating (occasionally nausea and vomiting), weight gain, difficulty sleeping, and mood changes (feeling irritable or anxious most of the time). I thought all these things had to do with my RA/AS somehow. I was wrong. My doctor got me started on Humira.

I am not going to lie to you. It is a bit scary to inject yourself in the stomach or your thighs. I had a nurse coming to my house shortly after I receive the first injections sent by the pharmaceutical that makes Humira at no charge. She brought me a training kit and the sharps container. She was very patient in showing me the ropes on how to inject myself and afterward, she will call to see how I was doing. Within a few weeks of taking Humira, I felt great. My headaches, stomach problems, and mood swings went away. My RA/AS improved tremendously. I was a new man. Now I can keep almost a normal life. A word of advice if you are going to take Humira. Do not go for the syringe. Go for the pen, trust me. They told me the pen hurts more but it is not the case. It is easier to use and you can do it on your thighs. The syringe is recommended to be used in your stomach. Do not even go there.

Humira worked wonderfully for about three months. I did not notice it at first but every time I administered my injection I had a rash on my legs and arms. I did not know but I had an allergic reaction to one of the components of Humira. My doctor switched me to Simponi, which is similar to Humira and that fix the problem. My experience with biologicals has been positive after three years of taking them.