The month of December 2010 was a very rough one for me!  I had multiple very bad rheumatoid arthritis flares and it was getting so bad that I had a discussion with my supervisor about flex time to allow for late arrival at work on really bad days.  I was surprised that she was very understanding and it was nice to know I had that option.  I was taking Minocycline, Culturelle (probiotic to counteract digestive issues brought on by the antibiotic), Celebrex, and painkillers every night.  I also have tendonitis and bursitis in my shoulder, so the inflammation there would trigger pain and inflammation in the rest of my arm.  I had 3 cortisone shots in my shoulder within about 2 years, but the relief didn't last after each one.  Undisturbed and restful sleep was nearly impossible.  I was a mess and nothing seemed to be working!

I did lots of reading about Enbrel and Humira.  The idea that these medicines are only available via injection and the possible side effects seemed scary, but I was desperate.  My rheumatologist suggested I try Humira and the injections are once every 2 weeks.  It comes in pre-loaded injection pens and I can do them myself at home.  It's a good thing I have great insurance because this stuff is very expensive.  After lots of blood tests and a TB test, I started Humira on Valentine's Day.  Only one week later, I felt like this medicine was a miracle drug!  It is truly amazing how much better I feel and I can function like a normal person without pain!  I no longer take the Minocycline, Celebrex or ANY painkillers and I sleep right through the night pain free!  I've had occasional minor and short flares in certain areas, but I contribute it to just overdoing it at times.  I'm not used to this new found freedom from pain!  This truly is wonderful stuff!!