Three weeks ago I had a reaction to my Remicade infusion. It was my 11th 600mg infusion taken every four weeks. The reaction was a sharp pain in my back getting progressively worse until they stopped the infusion. Every infusion before they gave me Benedryl but not at this new infusion center.
My new G.I. suggested it was time to change to Humira and because of the convenience of a shot every other week rather than a whole afternoon at the infusion center, I agreed.
Now I find that it will cost me a whole lot more money since I'm on Medicare and not elgible for Humira's discount and even on Medicare, it will cost me over $5,000 per year while Remicade was basically paid for under Medicare part B.
Moreover, we will be going back to Florida in about two months and I will have to start the whole ordeal all over again with my old Drs. I'm tempted to request the Remicade but with the Benedryl for another infusion and rethink this after we get home.
It seems like I am slowly being sucked in by first the J-pouch, then the Crohns, then the Scleritis of the eye, and then finally a real bone density issue due to my past sins with Prednisone.
I wonder if I should risk a heart attack or some other reaction if I continue with the Remicade. What if I stretch out the intervals to 4-6 weeks as is usually done for Crohns and take maybe 2 1/2mg of Prednisone to help keep the eye quiet.
Jan? Anybody?
Dave D.

Dave, I have no words of wisdom as usual, but just wanted to let you know I'm still cheering your corner. It just seems like you never get a break!

I hope things sort themselves out and that you can find that elusive medical solution soon. Keep your chin up.

Luv & hugs

Shell

I suppose you can assume that the Benadryl was the difference and perhaps you should discuss that with your doc. Docs don't focus much on the realities of cost unless you tell them about it.

I think it would be worth one more try.

Jan

I would be afraid that the reaction would be worse. Allergic reactions tend to get worse each time and the next might be really bad, even with the benadryl.
Good Luck.