I have been on Orencia for 2 years and have had all the side effects, nausea, headaches,irritability and not feeling well for a week at a time. I had to quit my job because of the side effects. My rheumatologist wants me to premedicate but I don't always have a driver to drive me home. I live 35 miles from my doctor. I would like to know what others are premedicating with. My primary care said he wants to do some research on it. I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. any suggestions would be appreciated.
6/20/09 8:42am
I'm so sorry you are feeling bad... I almost started on Orencia, but couldn't afford the copay with my insurance, so my doctor gave me Simponi to try. WOW, absolutely amazing- didn't burn like Humira and Enbrel and I don't feel any side effects AT ALL. And, I've been on almost everything. I realize the "jury's out" still as I've only had one shot (it's monthly) but I'm not fighting nausea, diarrhea, headaches, etc. Maybe it's time for you to try something different?? I hope things smooth out for you as it is obvious that you are having a very hard time. Will keep you in my thoughts.
Donna
6/19/09 7:22am
I premedicate with Solu Cortef and Benedryl IV. It seems to help the nausea along with the Orencia Treatment. I always feel bad a week after the treatment. Good for two weeks. Then the last week my body is telling me it needs the Orencia treatment again. Its helped a little but No full remission of RA.
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By jr520— Last Modified: 12/23/10, First Published: 06/17/09
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Thanks for the information on the other medicine. I have been after my rheumatologist to change my medicine but he wants to make sure that it is from the Orencia (I have the symptoms every time I take the treatment). I hope everything works out for you with this medicine. It sounds very promising.