Friday, December 19, 2008
Went for my blood lab and it came back ok. Doc decided not to put me back on MTX, but instead told me start on Leflunomide 20 mg/day. I started this past Monday and so far, no complaints. I've read there are a few side effects, hope it doesn't affect me. I'm still on Enbrel 50mg/week and taking it one day @ a time. Some days are difficult and the weather doesn't help.
Anybody else on the same meds with some advise, please??
I was on arava for about 6 months a few years ago and had to be taken off because my blood pressure shot up. That can be a side affect of arava so moniter your blood pressure carefully. I am also on methotrexate and the only side affect Ive had is nausea.
Tks for the info.
I've been on Arava only for a week but I don't know if I'll be able to keep taking it. I don't like the side effects, it makes me feel funny and irritable, also a little dizzy. I think I'm going to talk to my rheumy if symptoms continue. MTX elevated my liver enzymes too much, but the side effects weren't as bad.
I was on Arava for a short while and had the same side effects you seem to be experiencing. I had to go off of it. I ended up in the Emergency Room because of it. I would definitely talk to your Rheumatologist. There are a host of other drugs out there, some of them older. I am presently on Humaria and Imuran and seem to be doing okay for now. My elbos is flaring and my doctor injected it the other day and it is beginning to feel better. You have to explain every little thing to your doctor in order for him/her to help I have found. Sometimes the smallest thing makes a big difference in how you are treated. This disease is a pain but we have to learn how to deal with it and that takes time. I hope you feel better soon and get your meds straightened out.
Galen Gilchrist
Thank you so much for the reply.
I went off of Arava completely and I feel better now. My rheumy wants to wait until my next appointment in March to see what other meds I can take with Enbrel.
Take care.