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What shall I do

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bhav68317
bhav68317

So currently am on methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine and prednisolone. Found out got latent TB. So I am taking isoniazid and pyridoxine, for the next 6 months. So far it's just been over 2 months on them, no side affects,. Finally TB has said I would be able to start on cimzia injections. But my rheumy nurse isn't happy!! I'm seeing her next week but have had a long chat with her over the phone. Consultant and nurse have said if I have any side effects they will not know if it's caused by methotrexate, or TB tablets or cimzia. I've had rheumatoid arthritis since July 2015. Every month I go for a blood test. For the next 6 months it will be shared with my both my rheumy nurse and tb nurse. To see any changes to my liver. Dilemma I think next week I should start this new treatment. Any suggestions?

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • timothy11402
    timothy11402 bhav68317

    Posted

    First, I am sorry you have both RA and TB. 

    It seems you are worried. You have a rheumatologist and two nurses working for you which is comforting.

    Try to let time unfold. You will probably be fine with the care they are giving you. 

    In short, try not to worry. wink

  • ihavenonickname
    ihavenonickname bhav68317

    Posted

    I have had juvenile rheumatoid arthritis for 54 years...

    July 2015 rheumatoid...

    Why is the TNF Cimzia being recommended?

    These are dangerous drugs not to be taken lightly. I would be inclined to hold out the six months to complete the TB treatment first.

    But, I don't know why it is being recommended that you begin now

  • Kinjo1222
    Kinjo1222 bhav68317

    Posted

    I went through the same scenario. I'm on methotrexate, plaquenil and folic acid. My pain did not go away so my rheumatologist took away sulphursalizine and added orencia but a test showed I had latent TB so I started isoniazid 9 month therapy. I was able to start on orencia after one month of taking isoniazid. So far no side effects...well except kidney infection, oral thrush and UTI. So now I have to stop orencia and start humira because my pain is not controlled yet.

    So once they say you have latent TB you have to get treated for that because any biologic they put you on has a potential of causing TB and having it in your blood gives you a higher chance of actually getting sick with TB. That's how the nurse at infectious desease explained it.

    I was diagnosed December last year. A year later and I'm still in pain. I get alot of encouragement from this forum so hang in there.

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