kclaxdad

Close Rheumatoid Arthritis

Diagnosed 3/05. Under control pretty quickly with MTX, Sulfsalazine and Plaquenil, but off RA meds with CA surgery in 2007. RA came back hard, and no real relief until Orencia in 2008. Doing well since.

Treatments

Folic Acid Working / Worked

No hair loss and seems to mitigate impact of MTX on liver.

Methotrexate Working / Worked

Part of the 3 drug elixer and it worked quickly after a few weeks, but had to get off all drugs for cancer surgery in 2006. RA came back with a vengeance and no relief until Orencia in April 28. Started with pills, now inject, and it seems to work better.

Orencia Working / Worked

It took about 5 months to kick in, but has done the job. This was the only biologic I could take. Only side effect was a slight itching sensation shortly after first infusion, but not since.

Plaquenil Working / Worked

Have been taking since 2005, have my eyes checked annually. No problems.

Prednisone Working / Worked

Only used when having major flares. Haven't had any for 18 months and hope I don't have to take any more. Gained weight while on it.

Azulfidine Working / Worked

Part of the 3 drug elixir. No side effect other than need to keep hat on when outside.