Tell us about your symptoms and treatment experience. Take our survey here.

caret icon Back to all discussions

Options if no longer a candidate for prescription dmards, antitnf

Hello all, I have been on the “usual” meds methotrexate, plaquenil, humira, sulfasalizine, en rel and finally was on loading doses of remicaide when they added prolia (for osteoporosis ).... The combination knocked out my immune system and I was told by hematology / oncology and infectious disease doc along with my primary care physician that I am no longer a candidate for any of the meds in these classes.
I am scheduled to see a new rheumatologist in 2 weeks at the urging of my neurologist.
I am doing what I can with diet- but I wanted to see what supplements others use if prescription drugs are no longer an option


  1. I personally do not believe one can adequately treat RA with supplements. So if others have suggestions, I hope they chime in.


    I want to contribute that you are a long way from having exhausted all TNF inhibitors, let alone you have not tried the various JAK inhibitors and other medication types.


    I hope your new rheumatologist will listen to you and that you will follow their lead. I am hoping for a great partnership.


    rick

    1. I absolutely agree with Rick. There are a number of biologics out there that work with different IL's. If you can, consult with a rheumatologist at a medical school. They'll likely be the most up to date and will have handled cases like yours.


      Good luck.

      1. Let me just say you're not alone. It took me and my rheumy almost 20 years to find an obscure biological but not really that was used for another disease that works with my RA. Unfortunately by that time the damage was done, but it did stop future damage, so there's that. Hopefully your new rheumy will have some new ideas, let us know how it turns out! Keep on keepin' on, DPM

        1. When I went to see a rheumatologist, she recommended that I take certain supplements ( https://vitamintree.ca/ ). And I didn't make any excuses for taking those supplements. I used to take calcium and vitamin D supplements, as well as Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil. These were beneficial to me to some extent. Consult a rheumatologist, who will be able to assist you.

          Please read our rules before posting.