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How Effective Are Remicade Infusions?
Question: Since fall 0f 2014, I have been getting RA infusions (4 total/Remicade) I continue to take methotrexate weekly. The infusions are expensive. I have not been able to find any data confirming that infusions will improve my health. Would like other suggestions/resources. Birthdate 1938.
Brief Answer:
remicade infusions
Detailed Answer:
Good evening
Thank you for writing on health care magic
Well yes you are right in wondering about remicade..How long? Cause eventually it can only control the disease and not cure it. It is a very good drug for inducing remission but has lot of constraints on the financial aspect. I would suggest you some alternatives and have have a few query too..
1. How is the frequency of injection remicade. Like after how many months you take it
If your disease is better maybe you can prolong the frequency of it. We have patients who take it once in 6 months. First 3 doses we give as scheduled and then increase the frequency
2. Have you been tried with leflunomide ? You can discuss with your rheumatologist and consider adding that to methotrexate so the combination can take better control of your disease
3. We also use injection rituximab as an alternative since it is given once in only 6 to 8 months. It works equally good and decreases the day care admissions
Do let me know these queries. Would guide you to a way out
Hope the information was useful
Regards
Dr naval
remicade infusions
Detailed Answer:
Good evening
Thank you for writing on health care magic
Well yes you are right in wondering about remicade..How long? Cause eventually it can only control the disease and not cure it. It is a very good drug for inducing remission but has lot of constraints on the financial aspect. I would suggest you some alternatives and have have a few query too..
1. How is the frequency of injection remicade. Like after how many months you take it
If your disease is better maybe you can prolong the frequency of it. We have patients who take it once in 6 months. First 3 doses we give as scheduled and then increase the frequency
2. Have you been tried with leflunomide ? You can discuss with your rheumatologist and consider adding that to methotrexate so the combination can take better control of your disease
3. We also use injection rituximab as an alternative since it is given once in only 6 to 8 months. It works equally good and decreases the day care admissions
Do let me know these queries. Would guide you to a way out
Hope the information was useful
Regards
Dr naval
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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