Seeking info
Hello everyone!
I was diagnosed in January this year with RA. The doctor prescribed Hydroxychloroquine. I got covid in February, so when I returned to the doctor in April I was in pain, exhausted, and stressed out. She prescribed additional meds ( Methotrexate and folic acid ) and put me out of work for 6 weeks. The dosage of methotrexate was increased after 3 weeks. Things seem to be improving slowly, but I have bad days after taking the weekly dose. Can someone tell me how long it takes for the meds to work? Will the side effects decrease as my body adjusts to it? Also should I be concerned about my immune system being compromised because when I return to work I will be in a where I am exposed to a variety of people with health issues. Any advice would be appreciated.
Hi
-- welcome to the community. It sounds like you've had a TON of change in a short time. To your questions -- the short answer is it really depends on how long it takes for meds to work. The same medication may take different time to work compared to different people. And for some, the same medication may not work at all. One thing you'll see often with RA is that it really can be one size fits all. In that there isn't a single way that works the same for everyone. I am glad that you are feeling better even though it's going slow. Warmly, - Reggie team member Thank you for responding. I know this is going to be a journey. I went back to the doctor this morning and she doesn't feel it is working that well after 6 weeks, so she is suggesting embrel.
You're welcome! It's good that your doctor was quick to identify what wasn't working. It can be a lot of trial and error to find the right med for you, but I am hoping Enbrel is the right one. The comment section in this thread has a lot of others sharing their experience trying Enbrel (https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/stories/enbrel-solution). Everyone's story and reaction is unique but it might be helpful for you! - Warmly, - Reggie
Thanks again for the info. The problem for me right now is I thought I was doing much better. I have only been on the methotrexate 6 weeks. I was shocked when she wanted to add the enbrel. I am so new to RA. I want to give the meds time to work before starting/adding something else to the mix.
Hi
. My guess is that your doctor might have recognized something about your experience that indicated more time on Methotrexate alone wasn't going to be effective enough. The combination of Methotrexate and Enbrel is a common one. My brother has been on that combination for PsA for more than a decade with no significant side effects and nearly complete relief. I hope it does the same for you. FYI: Enbrel can be super expensive, but the manufacturer has a financial assistance program that can help. The financial guidelines are pretty generous. For those who qualify, they usual cover all or part of the cost. Keep us posted if you feel comfortable doing so. Sending lots of positivity your way. - Lori (Team Member)
