I decided to try Ratuxin after exhausting everyother RA med out there without much relief.

I've had my first 2 infusions of Ratuxin (2 in 1 month).  I was concerned about starting this medication as it is an infusion drug that after the first 2 it is than 6 months later that you get the next.  I wondered and even asked my Rheumatologist what would happen if I had any side effects, knowing that this drug was not just a pill that I could stop.  It would be in my system for 6 months. I understood that once in my system it could not be taken out.  I was stil conferned but wanted relief.

I weighed my options,spoke to other patients and decided that since nothing else has worked well for treating my flares I would try it.

About 1 1/2 weeks after my 1st infustion I noticed that my heart was racing (palpatations).  When I was at my 2nd infusion I mentioned it to the infusion nurse and she was not too concerned.  I left a msg with my Dr too.  His responce was that he did not think that Ratuxin was causing this and to see my Primary care dr.  I knew that the drug was the problem as I had not had any heart problems prior.  This disregard did make me upset.

I called the drug company and they did say that some people did report palpatations.  I was upset at my Rheumi not taking my concerns about the drug seriously.

I went to my PCP and he logically felt that Ratuxin was the issue but of course, could not prove it.  I was given an EKG (no results yet) and have a cardiac echo next week (going to cost me $600 as I have to meet my deductible).

My main concern is that if Ratuxin is causing cardiac issues and it cannot be removed from my body. Qhat kind of damage is going to happen to my heart?

I know that I am one of a few that this may happen to but want to get it out there for all thinking of taking this medication.  Consider the possibility that you too could get some kind of side effect and that you will not be able to get this drug out of your body until it wears off in 6 months.

I guess what I hope that you all do and that I should have done is listen to that "little voice" that tells you things are not right; ask questions and follow your heart.

Be well my fellow RA friends.

Julie