Changing biologics
I was diagnosed about 18 months ago with psa and fibro. I used Humira for a year with some breakthrough pain around 10 days. My insurance wouldn't cover a weekly dose so my rheumy switched to Enbrel. I've had horrible pain the past few months. Not sure if it's a fibro flare or from switching biologics. Does anyone have experience with switching? I figured since I was already on biologics I wouldn't have any down time between. Thank you for your help.
Hello
, well I have quite a bit of experience switching biologics. I am on my 6th one (I think I might have lost track now.) Anyway, from how I understand it, each biologic is targeted to work a little differently and therefore it takes time to build up in your system and make a difference. It depends on each medication,but in my experience, it takes about 3-5 doses to notice a difference. But that depends on the dosing schedule you are on. If you are still struggling with the switch check with your doctor. I hope you get some relief soon! -Leanne, Psoriatic-Arthritis.com Team Thanks for your reply. I've been on a weekly dosage of the Enbrel (switched from Humira) for about 6 doses. I'll probably call my doctor.
Oh yeah
6 doses in (in my opinion) would probably warrant a call to the doctor. They might want to do a round of steroids just to calm everything down. At least that's what has been my experience in switching meds. It can feel like such a long time while you are waiting for some relief. -Leanne, Psoriatic-Arthritis.com Team
I started on Embrel in 2000 and it worked very well for a few years but gradually declined. My Deurmy said that was common and switched me to Humera (sp?) which worked about the same as Embrel for joints but was better for skin. Then after a year or two, it’s effectiveness also declined and we decided to try Remicade infusions. Once a quarter, 3 hours in infusion center, was a hassle but it worked beautifully! Then after about a year I had allergic reaction with about half a bag to go. Nurse had to switch bag to Benadryl (or something like it) as I had shortness of breath, fever, and coughing. Then i went to sleep until infusion place closed. Hence, no more Remicade and i went back to Embrel which worked well until our private insurance stopped and net cost on Medicare was too high. Now i get infusions of Simponi Aria which seems to work well until the week before I’m due the next one.
Bottom line is that you need to keep switching around until the right drug works.
Hi
. That allergic reaction must have been scary. I am glad they were able to treat you immediately. In our sister community for people who have MS, one of our advocates calls that period just before the next infusion "the crap gap" because he feels so awful. It sounds like the term could apply to your experience as well. I hope Simponi Aria continues to help and that that gap closes over time. Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member)
