Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

2,179 Members

16,355 Posts

0 Online

moondahtoo 10/16/2014

I have been dealing with RA for about 10 years. Most recently I was taking Orencia but that has stopped working, so my doctor recommended Xeljanz. I also take MTX, Meloxicam, Folic Acid and Vicodin.

I started the Xeljanz on Monday morning and almost immediately had stomach cramping and pain, indigestion and back pains. Don't know if this is due to the fact that I also take NSAIDs. I took the Xeljanz for a couple of days thinking this might go away but no such luck. Emailed my doctor and he said to stop the Xeljanz and wait a few days and then try again. I don't know if I want to try again after what happened the first time.

Anybody have any experience with this medication? Thanks in advance.

Carole

Sunvalleygal 10/17/2014

When I started plaquenil, I experienced the same thing. Then Arava was added and I experienced the same...indigestion, diarrhea, upset, gassiness, etc... so I called the pharmacy and discuss it with her.

I started trying the med at night before bed and took with OTc meds for indigestion and gas. It took a few days but it finally all settled down.

It just depends on how much discomfort u can endure . I really wanted the relief that the meds could give.... but had to balance that with the discomfort and side effects. . It is now all good. Of course only you can gauge it...

This is my opinion and experience and hopefully this helps you.

Sun

moondahtoo 10/17/2014

Thanks for your reply. I stopped the Xeljanz a couple days ago and have been trying not to take NSAIDs. I already take meds for indigestion but I'm still having some stomach issues. I guess it will take a few days to get out of my system.

I don't know if I can deal with this type of pain again. I am going to have to really think about this before I give the Xeljanz another try.

Sunvalleygal 10/18/2014

Only you know how your body really feels. Hopefully there is something else that can and will work for you. Best of luck for you moon.

xo Sun

phylrich 11/05/2014

Been on Xeljanz for four months.. No stomach problems as yet..
But am having a lot of leg cramps, and if my HAIR doesn't stop falling out I will be shopping for a wig.. This is the fourth med I have been on and have had side effects with all - MY Rheumy doesn't seem to be bothered with any of my side effects - just hands me a different one to try.. Thinking of doing a little Rheumy shopping..

deleted_user 11/09/2014

Thanks for sharing your experiences with Xeljanz. I've seen advertisements and wondered about it. I have not tried it, and it has not been suggested. I don't like the hair falling out part. I don't have much left after years on other meds.

moondahtoo 11/10/2014

Just wanted to check in again and let everyone know that I did try Xeljanz a second time. I was fine for several days and then had severe diarrhea. Guess Xeljanz just doesn't agree with me.

Going to discuss trying a different medication next time I see my doctor.

Carole

Join the Conversation