Quote:
Originally Posted by ~Christina
Quick question
Psoriatic arthritis and fibro here.
I am on Otezla for scalp psoriasis. Which it works wonderfully. But rheumatologist had me try Arara and now Sulfasalazine which hasn’t helped , been taking the sulfa for about 5 weeks. Maybe not enough time yet to notice any help?
The only thing left is Biologics , anyone try that class of medication? It really worries me.
If I try one I have to wean off the Tenex my doctor said biologics would also manage my scalp psoriasis,
I’m just a mess about everything in case anyone has seen my thread on bipolar forum.
I hope everyone is doing okay or at least being kind to yourselves.
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I also have Psoriatic Arthritis. After Sulfasalazine, I was moved to methotrexate. My rheumy won't use Arava with me. I was very afraid of methotrexate (MTX) for years; yet, then talked with several people who had been using it 5-10 years or so, with no troubles. I chose to inject MTX because it has less effect upon the GI tract that way. I inject once a week. I take an anti-nausea drug 1 hour before injection.
Biologics are next for me if/when MTX fails. I am much more concerned about the biologics, as is my rheumy. She really does not want to have to put me on biologics.
That said, some people experience worsening depression with some of these meds and MTX is one of them, according to my rheumy.
Everyone is different. To be fair, I want to mention there's a member here who has had very bad effects from MTX (I think it was our own "cakeladie?")and my heart goes out.
According to my rheumy, drug plans/insurers can/do refuse to cover biologics if/when the insured has not tried all other options first. I am not sure just what that means for each case of PsA.
I am on my second trial of MTX (injection) -- it's not very expensive since I "draw up" the injection myself. The pre-filled syringes are outrageously expensive! MTX also clears up my skin.
Everyone is different, as you know. Maybe you have tried MTX and/or your rheumy does not choose to try you on it?
I think" the biologics currently approved for PsA are: Humira and Enbrel. I think there's another one recently approved and just a guess: Orencia.
My rheumy says she has PsA pts on Humira or Enbrel and they've done well.
It's all very anxiety-provoking.
Like you need this! NOT!
Yet, you may find profound pain relief?
Please feel free to PM me anytime.
WC