Actually, the safety profile of Humira is better than Remicade. That is because it is a fully humanized antibody (Remicade is based on mouse protein), and is given by subcutaneous injection, as opposed to IV infusion (Remicade), so far less likely to induce an allergic reaction.

The main risk is for infection, particularly reactivation of latent infections, like TB, herpes, or hepatitis. But, if you use common sense, you should be fine.

The other risk most people freak out about was the alleged risk of cancer, lymphoma in particular. But, long term studies have shown the risk to be no higher than the general public. Of course, this could change as these drugs are in use longer.
http://ard.bmj.com/content/ear...2011-201244.abstract

Another concern is bone marrow and/or liver damage, but regular blood testing stays on top of this. Drug induced lupus can also happen. The good news is that all of these are reversible when the drug is discontinued.

I've been on one biologic or another since early 2005. I get blood tets done every three months. My blood counts and liver enzymes have actually improved over these years!

Jan

Jan,

Thank you for the post regarding biologics.

Pouchmonkey, please report your results to us if you prefer. I am in the same situation you are with 16 months of chronic pouchitis that is held pretty much at bay when on augmentin. If I miss even one dose I rapidly decline. I am meeting with my colorectal surgeon early next month to discuss options

I agree with you in that I had the surgery to get off meds. I too am fearful about biologics so I appreciate the information shared in this post.

On a side note, there are additional drugs being tested for crohn's and colitis as listed in this article below (even one for pouchitis) so maybe these could help those of us who suffer from chronic pouchitis.

http://ibdcrohns.about.com/od/...ndrugs/a/ibdpipe.htm

Also in the article below there is a new RA drug being tested for UC that possibly could benefit UC patients and maybe also help those of us with pouchitis?

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-50...backed-by-fda-panel/