Date: 08.11.2009
From: jill
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Subject: Re: Biologicals - what are they
Hi Matt, I was using DMARDS Methtrexate, along with sulfasalazine, sulfa made me ill...MTX alone did not work for me, I got worse and they offered me the Biologic treatment along side MTX(methtrexate) Enbrel is a Biologic response modifier....it stimulates or trys to restore the Immune system to fight the arthritis...it basically dampens down the symptoms of the arthritis have it chronically , get offered the Bilolgic treatment...... a person has to fit a certain criteria, i.e. how many joints r inflamed...so if most of your joints(not feet) r inflamed, every digit on your hands, elbows, shoulders, wrists etc, it all inflamed at the time of assesement, U will after a 2nd assemenet and still inflamed, u will be offered the Biologics....the reason they r so strict with who is allowed it is fortwo reasons...... one Cost, ten grand a year cost to NHS....2nd, becos they r toxic and we need a lot of looking after, well same as being on MTX really.....blood tests etc...xrays on chests etc and regular visits to the Biologics Nurse....... they r last resort for ppl like me that keep getting flare ups, and having corrective surgery, and to help stop the degeneration of my joints......please google ANTI TNF Drugs.... it will explain to u so much better than I can.... take care Matt Jill
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