Deciding on a PsA Treatment

By nonib2

1 min read

So my rheumatologist knows how much I don't want to be put on a biologic because of the high risk of having another abdominal surgery. I've already experienced complications in the past several years, twice nearly dying from sepsis.

PsA treatment so far

We've used prednisone on many occasions, but after beginning another course of them yesterday in preparation for a 4-day event this weekend (which otherwise I just could not attend due to the whole-body-every-joint pain and overwhelming fatigue), I woke up today feeling dizzy. I've been feeling so terrible that I've been weighing the choice for my next rheumatology visit on August 1...

PsA treatment decisions

Do I go on a biologic and play Russian roulette with the what-ifs or just keep using steroids? Anyone else out there had to make this decision?

Thoughts, please.

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MarthaGrowdon Moderator
Hi NoniB2, I hope some others in our community chime in with their decision path. It's certainly never an easy one. In the meantime, I wanted to show you this article with one of our member's perspectives on the various biologics—she and her son, who also has PsA, have tried just about every one out there: <a href='https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/living/choosing-biologic-fit-lifestyle/' target='_blank'>https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/living/choosing-biologic-fit-lifestyle/</a>. I also wanted to put this article out there as it has tips for preparing for your upcoming doctors visit to help you get the answers you need to make this decision. This is not an easy decision and every person chooses differently. We are thinking about you and hope that you can move forward confidently in whatever decision you make. Sending you hugs, Martha <a href='http://Psoriatic-Arthritis.com' target='_blank'>Psoriatic-Arthritis.com</a> Team
1. nonib2 Member
 Thank you to both for replies. I've decided as of yesterday when speaking with my primary NP that I will not take any biologic yet. Of course this may change Monday when talking with my rheumatologist; time will tell.
kerry Member
My Dr just prescribed Humira for me. Of course my insurance does not want to cover so now we deal with the back of forth between Dr and insurance. Quality of life is so important, I miss doing the things I used to love! Do your research and talk with your Drs.
daintee Member
I've been on Enbrel (it stopped working) and Remicade (gave me drug-induced Lupus) and am reluctant to try new drugs. Most doctors get frustrated with me but I'm scared of all the side effects and possible allergic reaction.
1. nonib2 Member
 I really understand your reluctance to try something else. After speaking with my rheumy again we decided I will wait until I've had my other rotator-cuff repair before starting anything different and I'll try to stay off prednisone too before and after. I am going to have one shoulder injection soon though w/steroid and anesthetic just so I can get a reprieve from extreme pain there for awhile. Since I already have mixed connective tissue disease along with at least four other autoimmune disorders, I already have some of the symptoms of SLE. Yeah, I'm afraid of the biologics.

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